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Natural products and ingredients are all the rage these days, but have you heard of one that’s used by tigers? Yes, this herb’s medicinal properties were discovered by natives on Madagascar when they saw wounded tigers rolling all over it in order to heal their wounds. Because of that unusual backstory, it has become known in Korea as Tiger herb, or byeongpul meaning “disease-treating plant”.

it's skin tiger cica 2

We are talking about the plant, Centella asiatica, which has been increasingly gaining attention in the pharmaceutical industry for its potential to hasten wound healing amongst other therapeutic benefits.

Centella asiatica is more popular than you realised

Centella asiatica can be found in many popular plant-based wound healing ointments sold in pharmacies, so when we found out that Korean skincare brand It’s Skin has incorporated it into its newest skincare line, we were extremely excited. If Centella asiatica could cure physical wounds, imagine how much it could help our acne scars and irritation on sensitive skin!

its skin tiger cica 1

In their Tiger Cica range of products, It’s Skin uses the Cica-Leaf Barrier Complex which contains:

  • Madecassoside: to promote skin cell regeneration and wound healing
  • Asiaticoside: to improve skin elasticity and promote collagen synthesis
  • Asiatic acid: to strengthen the skin barrier
  • Madecassic acid: to protect damaged and weakened skin
  • Centella asiatica extract complex: strengthens skin’s moisture film, soothes skin and reduces skin sensitivity

All the products in the line are also what they call ZERO 10, which means it is free from 10 types of ingredients typically known to cause skin irritation, making the products ideal for use even on sensitive skin. They are free from:

  • Parabens: substances typically used as preservatives
  • Phenoxyethanol: a substance used for sterilization
  • Artificial colouring: may irritate the skin
  • Artificial fragrance: may irritate the skin
  • Triethanolamine: a surfactant and emulsifer which may dry out the skin
  • Tri losan: a preservative
  • Mineral oil: may irritate the skin
  • Sulfate surfactant: may dry out the skin
  • Benzophenone: used for fragrance, which may irritate the skin
  • Benzoic acid: a substance used to regulate pH and sterilization

What’s in the Tiger Cica line?

Tiger Cica Gel Cream

its skin tiger cica gel cream

Contains: 68% Centella asiatica extract

Suitable for: Oily skin types, combination skin types, sensitive skin types

This is a soothing gel that is said to strengthen the skin barrier and restore skin hydration. It absorbs into the skin quickly, and leaves a pleasant, calming scent. Its ingredients are so formulated to relieve redness, soothe the skin and to relieve itching caused by dryness.

A unique gel network system used in the formula causes the Centella asiatica extract and Madecassoside contained within it to burst upon massaging onto the skin and get absorbed quickly.

Apply twice a day for about two to four weeks in order to see a noticeable effect. It’s Skin recommends that you use this before your sunscreen in the morning, and as the last step of your nightly ritual.

It’s Skin Tiger Cica Gel Cream retails for SGD 43 for 50ml, and is available at It’s Skin counters and stores.

Tiger Cica Moisturising Balm

its skin tiger cica moisturising balm

Contains: 55% Centella asiatica extract

Suitable for: Dry skin types

This moisturising balm has a firm, hydrating texture that does not feel greasy after application. It is formulated also with macadamia nut oil to prevent moisture evaporation and to improve skin radiance, as well as eucalyptus oil for its soothing scent.

It’s the only moisturising balm that comes with a spatula, so you can ensure a higher hygiene level when using your product even with its tub packaging.

Apply twice a day for about two to four weeks in order to see a noticeable effect. It’s Skin recommends that you use this before your sunscreen in the morning, and as the last step of your nightly ritual.

It’s Skin Tiger Cica Moisturising Balm retails for SGD 45 for 50ml, and is available at It’s Skin counters and stores.

It’s Skin Tiger Cica Tone-up Cushion

its skin tiger cica tone up cushion

Contains: 33% Centella asiatica extract

Suitable for: All skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin.

This is a tone-up cushion that can improve skin radiance and correct skin complexion in the long run. It has an SPF of 50+ and PA+++, so you know that you are getting your adequate sun protection with this product. It can be used before your makeup.

It comes in a white liquid texture with a barely noticeable pink tone, which is actually calamine powder that can soothe the skin and relieve irritation. The sun protection within the product is formulated such that it’s not absorbed into the skin, thereby reducing chances of irritation. This also means that it might leave a slight white cast.

It’s Skin Tiger Cica Tone-up Cushion retails for SGD 39.90 for 15g, and is available at It’s Skin counters and stores.

It’s Skin Tiger Cica Blemish Cover Cushion

its skin tiger cica blemish cover cushion

Contains: 27% Centella asiatica extract

Suitable for: All skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin.

This is your conventional foundation cushion but formulated with the wound-healing Centella asiatica herb. It has a semi-matte finish and said to be long-lasting.

The foundation is not only SPF 50+ and PA++++, it also contains adenosine for wrinkle improvement, and niacinamide for whitening. It comes in 2 shades: 01 Light Skin and 02 Natural Skin.

It’s Skin Tiger Cica Blemish Cover Cushion retails for SGD 39.90 for 15g, and is available at It’s Skin counters and stores.