Unscented Cica Calming Daily Cream
Unscented Cica Calming Daily Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing daily moisturizer with 46% Centella Cica Complex and 2% Niacinamide that calms redness, soothes irritation, and strengthens the skin barrier. Perfect for sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin seeking gentle yet effective hydration.
Centella Cica Complex (46%)
Contains all four Centella triterpenoids (Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid) to calm irritation and boost skin regeneration.
Texture & feel
SENSORYCentella Cica Complex (46%)
Contains all four Centella triterpenoids (Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid) to calm irritation and boost skin regeneration.
Barrier Repair Formula
Ceramide NP combined with Squalane and Glycerin strengthens and restores the skin's protective moisture barrier.
Brightening Niacinamide
2% Niacinamide helps fade dark spots, even skin tone, and control sebum production without irritation.
Clean Minimalist Formula
Only 18 essential ingredients. Free from fragrance, parabens, sulfates, and harsh alcohols for maximum gentleness.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Centella Asiatica is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy.
Contains Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate and Glyceryl Stearate Citrate which are fatty acid esters that may potentially feed Malassezia yeast.
Rating 1/5. Key ingredients like Squalane and Glycerin have minimal pore-clogging potential. Non-comedogenic formula.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and dermatologically tested. pH-balanced at 5.5 to match skin's natural acidity.
Gentle formula suitable for rosacea-prone skin. Centella Asiatica has clinically proven anti-inflammatory properties.
No animal-derived ingredients. Not tested on animals. EWG-certified green ingredients.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCentella Asiatica Cica Complex 46%Proven
The star ingredient containing four powerful triterpenoids that work synergistically to calm, heal, and protect skin. Known as "tiger grass" because tigers allegedly rolled in it to heal wounds.
- Madecassoside: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, accelerates wound healing
- Asiaticoside: Stimulates collagen synthesis and GAG production
- Asiatic Acid: Promotes skin regeneration and barrier repair
- Madecassic Acid: Enhances moisture retention and skin healing
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 2%Proven
A multi-functional skincare superstar that brightens, strengthens the barrier, and controls oil without irritation at this gentle concentration.
- Brightening: Fades dark spots and evens skin tone by inhibiting melanin transfer
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger, healthier skin
- Oil Control: Regulates sebum production, reducing shine
- Anti-Inflammatory: Calms redness and inflammation
Squalane HighProven
A plant-derived emollient that mimics your skin's natural sebum for deep, non-greasy hydration. Excellent for all skin types including acne-prone.
- Skin-Identical: Naturally found in human sebum, absorbs perfectly
- Non-Comedogenic: Rating of 1, won't clog pores or cause breakouts
- Stable: Saturated hydrocarbon with excellent shelf stability
Ceramide NPProven
A skin-identical lipid that makes up about 50% of the skin barrier. Essential for maintaining hydration and protecting against environmental damage.
- Barrier Repair: Fills gaps between skin cells to prevent moisture loss
- Long-term Hydration: Improves water-holding capacity of the stratum corneum
- Protection: Shields against irritants and environmental stressors
18 ingredients
Centella Asiatica Leaf Water, Water, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Niacinamide, Squalane, Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ceramide NP, Butylene Glycol, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your daily moisturizer in AM and PM. Apply before sunscreen in the morning. Can be used alone or as a light occlusive layer.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
After cleansing and applying toner/essence/serum, ensure your skin is slightly damp to maximize absorption.
Dispense & Warm
Take a pea-sized amount (or slightly more for dry skin) and warm between your fingertips for 3-5 seconds.
Apply Gently
Gently press and pat the cream into your face and neck. Avoid rubbing to prevent irritation on sensitive areas.
Follow with SPF (AM)
In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ for complete protection.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, easily irritated skin
- You experience redness, inflammation, or rosacea
- Your skin barrier is compromised or damaged
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean formulas
- You want lightweight hydration that absorbs quickly
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have acne-prone skin needing gentle care
- You want K-beauty at an affordable price
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia)
- You need very heavy, rich moisturization
- You prefer anti-aging powerhouses (retinol)
- You want a scented/luxurious sensorial experience
- You need intensive treatment for severe acne
- You prefer western drugstore brands
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESFragrance-free, pH-balanced formula with proven soothing ingredients. Dermatologically tested and rosacea-friendly.
Provides solid hydration with ceramides and squalane. Very dry skin may want to layer with a richer cream on top.
Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture won't add greasiness. Niacinamide helps control excess sebum production.
Balances perfectly across different zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone.
Non-comedogenic with soothing centella for post-acne healing. Caution for fungal acne due to certain emulsifiers.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Soothing & Hydration
Skin feels instantly calmer, softer, and more hydrated. Redness begins to visibly reduce. No stinging or irritation even on sensitive areas.
90% noticed immediate comfortReduced Irritation & Improved Texture
Persistent redness becomes less noticeable. Skin texture feels smoother and more balanced. Dry patches and flakiness improve significantly.
85% saw reduced rednessStrengthened Barrier & Brighter Skin
Skin barrier feels stronger and more resilient. Slight brightening effect from niacinamide becomes visible. Skin holds moisture better throughout the day.
78% noticed improved barrierLong-term Skin Health
Consistent improvement in overall skin health and resilience. Post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation continue to fade. Skin is calmer, clearer, and more even-toned.
72% reported lasting improvementsRatings by platform
425+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Fragrance-free, truly unscented formula
- Fast absorption without greasy residue
- Calms redness and irritation quickly
- Affordable K-beauty price point ($19)
- Minimal ingredient list (only 18)
- Works well under makeup
- pH-balanced at 5.5
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- No stinging on sensitive skin
Criticized
- May not be rich enough for very dry skin
- 50ml size can run out fast
- Contains potential fungal acne triggers
- Less widely available than major brands
- Some prefer higher niacinamide %
- Tube packaging (not airless pump)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar centella focus but contains zinc oxide and tea tree oil. Slightly thicker texture, targets acne more aggressively. Contains palm oil (not fungal acne safe).
Higher centella concentration (50%) with shea butter for richer feel. Contains more emollients, better for dry skin. Also fragrance-free and vegan.
French pharmacy option with madecassoside + panthenol. Thicker balm texture, better for severely damaged skin. Contains shea butter, not for oily skin.
Premium K-beauty option with similar cica benefits. Contains fragrance (lavender, bergamot oils). Richer texture, higher price point. Not suitable for fragrance-sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEDr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic dispensing, easy to control amount.
Yes, 50ml is under the 100ml TSA/airport liquid limit for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cream is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. Centella Asiatica is considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and has actually been studied for preventing stretch marks. However, always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new skincare product during pregnancy.
Use with caution. While many ingredients are fungal acne safe (squalane, glycerin, centella actives, niacinamide), this cream contains Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate and Glyceryl Stearate Citrate which are fatty acid esters that could potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider a strictly FA-safe alternative like Malezia moisturizer or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Fluide.
Yes! This cream pairs well with active ingredients. For retinol: Apply retinol first, wait 5-10 minutes, then apply this cream to buffer and soothe. For vitamin C: Use vitamin C serum first (AM), then this cream. For AHA/BHA: Apply acids, wait 20-30 minutes, then apply this soothing cream. The centella and ceramides help calm any irritation from active ingredients, making this an ideal companion moisturizer.
This cream is best for sensitive, combination, and oily skin types. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly without greasiness, making it excellent for oily skin. The soothing centella complex makes it ideal for sensitive, redness-prone, and rosacea skin. Dry skin types may find it provides good hydration but might want to layer a richer cream on top in winter or very dry climates.
Immediate: Instant soothing and hydration from first use. Week 1-2: Visible reduction in redness and irritation, improved skin texture. Week 3-4: Strengthened barrier, brighter skin tone from niacinamide. Month 2+: Long-term improvements in overall skin health, fading of post-acne marks. Consistent daily use (AM and PM) is key for best results.
Apply as the final step of your routine before sunscreen (AM) or as the final step (PM). The order is: Cleanser → Toner → Essence → Serum → This Cream → Sunscreen (AM only). If using actives like retinol, apply them before this cream. You can also use this as a light occlusive layer to seal in other treatments.
This cream has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. Key ingredients like squalane (rating 1), glycerin (rating 0), and niacinamide are non-comedogenic. The formula is specifically designed to be non-pore-clogging and is suitable for acne-prone skin. However, everyone's skin is different—patch test first if you're particularly breakout-prone.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and effectiveness. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 50ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use on face and neck, so you'll likely finish it well before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: Resh Lab Unscented Cica Calming Daily Cream is an excellent budget-friendly K-beauty moisturizer for sensitive, oily, and combination skin. With 46% Centella Cica Complex, 2% Niacinamide, and Ceramide NP in a clean 18-ingredient formula, it delivers effective calming and barrier repair without irritation. The fragrance-free, vegan formula is pregnancy-safe and works beautifully under makeup. While it may not be rich enough for very dry skin or strictly safe for fungal acne, it offers outstanding value at $19 for 50ml and outperforms many premium competitors. A solid daily moisturizer for anyone seeking gentle, science-backed skincare.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Centella Asiatica Leaf Water
Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|





