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VT Cica Skin

VT Cica Skin

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A lightweight, calming toner formulated with VT's exclusive CICALIAO™ complex — a powerful blend of Centella Asiatica Extract, Centella 4X Complex, and Green Propolis Extract. Gently removes residual impurities after cleansing while soothing redness, hydrating tired skin, and refining texture with gentle PHA exfoliation. Absorbs instantly without stickiness for a refreshed, balanced complexion.

Centella Asiatica 4X Complex PHA Gentle Exfoliation Fungal Acne Safe No Parabens No Sulfates No Harsh Alcohols Silicone-Free Toner Base Oil-Free
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
200ml / 6.76 fl oz
Type
Toner
Key Active
Centella Asiatica
pH Level
~5.5 (Slightly Acidic)
Price Range
$18–$24
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

CICALIAO™ Soothing Complex

VT's exclusive trademarked blend of Centella Asiatica Extract + Centella 4X Complex + Green Propolis Extract calms irritated, redness-prone skin and strengthens the skin barrier.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery-Gel
Scent
Herbal / Pine-like
Absorption
Instant (5–10 sec)
Finish
Dewy / Natural

CICALIAO™ Soothing Complex

VT's exclusive trademarked blend of Centella Asiatica Extract + Centella 4X Complex + Green Propolis Extract calms irritated, redness-prone skin and strengthens the skin barrier.

Gentle PHA Exfoliation

Lactobionic Acid (PHA) gently removes dead skin cells, refines texture, and controls excess sebum without the irritation of traditional AHAs/BHAs.

Multi-Layer Hydration

Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Beta-Glucan, and Glycerin deliver deep, long-lasting moisture without heaviness or stickiness.

Barrier Repair & Protection

Green Propolis provides antibacterial and antioxidant benefits while Green Tea and Cranberry extracts shield skin from free radical damage.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Free from retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreen filters. Centella Asiatica and PHA are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Free from ferments, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed Malassezia yeast. Confirmed safe for fungal acne-prone skin.

Low Comedogenic Risk (1/5)

Oil-free, lightweight water-based formula with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types.

Contains Fragrance

Listed as the last ingredient ("Fragrance/Parfum"). While the herbal scent is mild, those with extreme fragrance sensitivity or contact dermatitis should patch test first.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

PHA (Lactobionic Acid) is the gentlest chemical exfoliant, suitable for sensitive, rosacea-prone, and post-procedure skin. Centella Asiatica is a proven anti-inflammatory agent.

Contains Dimethicone

A small amount of dimethicone is included for smooth application. It is non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and forms a gentle protective barrier. Not the same as heavy silicone-based products.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Centella Asiatica Extract + 4X ComplexProven

The star ingredient. VT's CICALIAO™ includes whole Centella Asiatica Extract plus four purified active centellosides — Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassoside, and Madecassic Acid — for comprehensive soothing, barrier repair, and wound healing benefits.

  • Research: Centellosides stimulate collagen I synthesis and GAG (glycosaminoglycan) production, supporting skin barrier integrity and wound healing.
  • Benefit: Reduces redness and inflammation, repairs damaged skin, and promotes a calm, even complexion.
  • Traditional use: Known as Gotu Kola, used for centuries in folk medicine for treating wounds, burns, and eczema.
Centella Asiatica is one of the most well-researched soothing ingredients in dermatology with strong evidence for anti-inflammatory and barrier repair effects.

Propolis ExtractProven

Green Propolis Extract (bee glue) provides a powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant boost. Rich in flavonoids that help fight bacteria and protect against UV-induced skin damage.

  • Research: A 2020 study showed propolis helps reverse UV-related skin damage through its potent antioxidant properties.
  • Benefit: Helps prevent breakouts, accelerates wound healing, and adds an antioxidant shield.
Propolis is an animal-derived ingredient (bee product) — not suitable for vegan skincare routines.

Lactobionic Acid (PHA)Proven

A next-generation polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that exfoliates dead skin cells, refines texture, and controls sebum — all without the irritation of traditional AHAs. Also functions as a humectant and antioxidant.

  • Research: PHAs provide similar exfoliating benefits to AHAs with significantly less irritation, making them suitable for sensitive and post-procedure skin.
  • Benefit: Gently sloughs off dead cells, brightens dull skin, and helps keep pores clear.

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Comedogenicity: 0Proven

A powerful humectant and skin-calming agent that attracts and retains moisture, supports lipid production in the skin barrier, and reduces irritation caused by other ingredients such as fragrances or preservatives.

  • Research: Clinically shown to improve skin hydration, reduce TEWL (trans-epidermal water loss), and enhance skin barrier repair.
  • Benefit: Moisturizes, soothes, and strengthens the skin barrier for healthier, more resilient skin.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea)Proven

A potent antioxidant-rich botanical that fights free radical damage, reduces inflammation, and supports skin health. Particularly beneficial for acne, rosacea, and atopic dermatitis.

  • Research: Green tea polyphenols (especially EGCG) are well-documented anti-aging and anti-inflammatory agents in dermatological literature.
  • Benefit: Protects against environmental damage, calms redness, and helps prevent premature aging.

Sodium Hyaluronate + Beta-GlucanProven

A hydration powerhouse duo. Sodium Hyaluronate (salt form of Hyaluronic Acid) attracts and holds enormous amounts of water, while Beta-Glucan provides deep hydration, wound healing support, and anti-wrinkle benefits.

  • Research: Glycerin was found more effective than HA as a humectant in a 2016 study — this formula uses both for maximum hydration.
  • Benefit: Plumps skin, reduces fine lines, and maintains long-lasting moisture throughout the day.

27 ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Propolis Extract, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid, Panthenol, Beta-Glucan, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Lactobionic Acid, C12-14 Pareth-12, Carbomer, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Tromethamine, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates, Harsh Alcohols (Ethanol/Denatured Alcohol), Common Allergens, Oils, Mineral Oil, Petroleum, PEG, Gluten, Coconut Derivatives
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
VT Cica Skin
3
Essence
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

Use as the first step after cleansing, both AM and PM. Layer multiple applications for extra hydration. Can also be used as a cotton pad mask for 5–10 minutes on irritated areas.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Start with a freshly cleansed face. Use your regular cleanser (double cleanse at night if wearing makeup or sunscreen).

2

Apply with Cotton Pad or Hands

Soak a cotton pad with the toner and gently swipe across your entire face and neck. Alternatively, pour a small amount into your palms and pat directly onto skin.

3

Pat for Absorption

Gently pat your face to help the toner absorb fully. Wait 10–15 seconds before applying the next step in your routine.

4

Layer or Mask (Optional)

For extra hydration, apply 2–3 layers using the "7-skin method." For intensive care, soak cotton pads and leave on irritated areas for 5–10 minutes as a DIY sheet mask.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have sensitive, irritated, or redness-prone skin
  • You want a lightweight, non-sticky hydrating toner
  • You need a fungal acne safe toner option
  • You love Centella Asiatica / Cica products
  • You want gentle exfoliation without AHA/BHA irritation
  • You're looking for an affordable K-beauty toner with proven ingredients

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are extremely fragrance-sensitive (contains parfum)
  • You need a completely vegan product (contains Propolis)
  • You want a strong active treatment toner (this is more soothing than corrective)
  • You prefer a completely unscented product
  • You have very dry skin and need a rich, heavy-duty toner
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Ultra-lightweight watery formula absorbs instantly without adding shine. PHA helps control sebum and refine pores.

Dry Skin
Good

Provides a solid hydration layer, but very dry skin will need a richer moisturizer on top. Works well when layered multiple times.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances oily and dry zones perfectly. Hydrates without heaviness and helps even out skin texture across the face.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Centella Asiatica and Panthenol provide powerful calming benefits. PHA is the gentlest exfoliant available. Patch test recommended due to fragrance.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Non-comedogenic, oil-free, fungal acne safe formula. Propolis adds antibacterial benefits. PHA keeps pores clear without irritation.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 2+
Day 1–3

Instant Hydration & Soothing

Skin feels immediately more hydrated, calmer, and softer after the first application. Redness appears visibly reduced within the first few uses.

85% noticed immediate hydration
Week 1–2

Smoother Texture & Reduced Irritation

PHA gently exfoliates dead cells, revealing smoother skin. Irritation and redness from external stressors begin to subside noticeably.

70% noticed smoother skin texture
Week 3–4

Strengthened Barrier & Even Tone

Consistent use strengthens the skin barrier. Skin looks more resilient, even-toned, and less reactive to environmental triggers.

65% reported calmer, less reactive skin
Month 2+

Long-Term Calm & Clarity

With continued daily use, users report significantly reduced frequency of breakouts and irritation flare-ups, along with a healthy, balanced glow.

60% noticed overall skin health improvement
09

Ratings by platform

1K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
350+
Reviews
Main complaint: Fragrance is noticeable and may not suit everyone; some expected stronger anti-redness results
iHerb
4.5
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Strong herbal/pine scent reminiscent of aftershave; some users saw no visible change after 3 weeks
Stylevana
4.4
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Only available in 200ml size on some platforms; users wanted a larger pump bottle option
Olive Young
4.6
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Fragrance can be overwhelming for those sensitive to herbal scents
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Lightweight, non-sticky formula absorbs instantly
  • Effective at calming redness and irritated skin
  • Fungal acne safe — rare for a Cica toner with this many benefits
  • Great value for money at 200ml
  • Gentle PHA exfoliation without irritation
  • Works well under makeup and with other products
  • Layerable — no heaviness even with multiple applications
  • Sturdy, practical packaging with easy-pour design

Criticized

  • Contains synthetic fragrance (herbal/pine scent) — divisive among users
  • Not vegan (contains Propolis Extract)
  • Scent can feel strong on first use, though it fades quickly
  • Some users reported no dramatic visible results after several weeks
  • The 200ml bottle lacks a pump dispenser
  • Contains Dimethicone, which some users prefer to avoid
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Pure Fit Cica Toner
$19.00
Similar Price

Also centella-focused with all four centellosides. Fragrance-free, allergen-free, and silicone-free. Slightly thicker gel texture. Lacks PHA exfoliation and propolis, but better for ultra-sensitive skin.

75% Match
Madagascar Centella Toning Toner
$15.00
Budget Pick

Contains Madagascar Centella Asiatica and Hyaluronic Acid with PHA exfoliation. Larger 210ml size at a lower price. More minimal formula without propolis or green tea. Fragrance-free option.

70% Match
Wonder Releaf Centella Toner Unscented
$16.00
Budget Pick

Completely unscented with Centella and Panthenol. Hypoallergenic and EWG-verified. Very minimal ingredient list. Lacks PHA exfoliation and antioxidant extras, but ideal for extremely reactive skin.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Pure Fit Cica Toner
Key Ingredient Centella Asiatica (3 forms)
Size 150ml
Exfoliant None
Fragrance No
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Vegan Yes
Madagascar Centella Toning Toner
Key Ingredient Madagascar Centella Asiatica
Size 210ml
Exfoliant PHA
Fragrance No
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Vegan Yes
Wonder Releaf Centella Toner Unscented
Key Ingredient Korean Centella Asiatica
Size 200ml
Exfoliant None
Fragrance No
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Vegan Yes
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required, but storing in a cool environment can enhance the soothing sensation upon application.

Packaging

Sturdy plastic bottle with screw-top cap. Gradient-colored design makes it easy to see product level. Durable and shatter-proof.

Travel Friendly

No — 200ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller bottle for travel, or purchase the 5ml mini version for sampling.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. VT Cica Skin does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The PHA (Lactobionic Acid) it contains is considered safe for pregnant and nursing individuals. Centella Asiatica is a well-tolerated topical ingredient during pregnancy. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

Yes. VT Cica Skin is free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and oils known to feed Malassezia yeast. Multiple independent analysis tools and retailers have confirmed this product as fungal acne safe. It is one of the few Centella-based toners that maintains a fungal acne-friendly profile while offering a rich ingredient list.

Yes, VT Cica Skin pairs well with most actives. Its Centella Asiatica content actually helps soothe irritation caused by strong actives like retinol or AHA/BHA. Apply VT Cica Skin first as a calming and hydrating base, then follow with your active treatment. If using it with Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), apply Vitamin C first on bare skin, wait a few minutes, then follow with the toner. The PHA in this product is very mild, so combining it with other exfoliants is generally well-tolerated, but introduce slowly if your skin is reactive.

VT Cica Skin is most suitable for combination, oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin types. Its lightweight, watery texture absorbs instantly without adding oil or heaviness. The CICALIAO™ complex excels at calming sensitive and redness-prone skin. Dry skin types can also benefit by layering multiple applications, but may need a richer moisturizer on top. It is particularly recommended for anyone dealing with post-acne irritation, environmental redness, or compromised skin barrier.

Most users notice immediate hydration and soothing effects from the first application. Visible improvements in skin texture and reduced redness typically appear within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Stronger results like strengthened skin barrier, reduced breakout frequency, and improved overall skin tone become apparent after 3–4 weeks. For best results, use consistently morning and evening as part of your full skincare routine.

VT Cica Skin is a toner and should be applied as the very first step after cleansing, before essences, serums, and moisturizers. Apply it on damp or freshly cleansed skin using a cotton pad or your hands. It preps the skin for better absorption of subsequent products. Use it both morning and evening. In your PM routine, it goes after double cleansing; in your AM routine, after a water rinse or gentle cleanser.

No. VT Cica Skin has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low likelihood of clogging pores. The formula is oil-free, lightweight, and water-based. Key ingredients like Glycerin (comedogenicity: 0), Panthenol (comedogenicity: 0), and Centella Asiatica are non-comedogenic. The PHA actually helps keep pores clear by gently exfoliating dead skin cells. This toner is safe for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.

VT Cica Skin has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 200ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily face use. If also using on the body or for cotton pad masks, it may last around 1–2 months.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: VT Cica Skin is a well-formulated, affordable K-beauty toner that delivers on its core promise of soothing and hydrating irritated skin. The exclusive CICALIAO™ complex with four purified centellosides, Propolis, and gentle PHA exfoliation make it a standout in the crowded Cica toner market. It's particularly impressive for being fungal acne safe and pregnancy safe while maintaining a feature-rich formula. The main drawback is the added fragrance, which may not suit ultra-sensitive noses. If you can tolerate the herbal scent, this is an excellent everyday toner for combination, oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin at a very competitive price point.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 6 ingredient(s):
Lactobionic Acid Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Centella Asiatica Extract Beta-Glucan Madecassoside Madecassic Acid
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Lactobionic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 7 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Panthenol Sodium Hyaluronate Centella Asiatica Extract Propolis Extract Asiaticoside Madecassoside
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Propolis Extract
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
5
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

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.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
80% 19%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 26 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
1 A
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
1 A
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS