Centella Asiatica (Cica)
병풀추출물 / 시카
Known as 'Tiger Grass' because tigers reportedly roll in it to heal their wounds. Centella Asiatica is rich in saponins (madecassoside, asiaticoside) that soothe inflammation, speed up wound healing, and stimulate new cell growth. It is a cornerstone of modern K-Beauty for sensitive skin.
Primary Clinical Benefits
- Reduces redness and inflammation
- Heals acne scars
- Boosts collagen synthesis
- Enhances antioxidant activity
Ideal Clinical Profile
Sensitive, acne-prone, or compromised skin barriers.
Contraindications
Virtually safe for all unless specifically allergic to the plant.
A water-soluble form of Vitamin B3. It is arguably the most versatile active ingredient in skincare. It works by inhibiting the transfer of melanosomes to skin cells, thereby reducing hyperpigmentation. It also dramatically increases ceramide production.
Primary Clinical Benefits
- Fades dark spots and PIH
- Minimizes pore appearance
- Regulates sebum (oil) production
- Strengthens the lipid barrier
Ideal Clinical Profile
Oily, combination, and hyperpigmented skin.
Contraindications
Some individuals experience flushing at concentrations above 10%.
Snail Secretion Filtrate
달팽이 점액 여과물
Naturally contains a complex blend of hyaluronic acid, glycoprotein, proteoglycans, and antimicrobial and copper peptides. It acts as an incredibly potent healing agent and humectant, giving the skin a plump, glowing appearance.
Primary Clinical Benefits
- Intense hydration
- Promotes tissue repair
- Fades acne scarring
- Improves skin texture and elasticity
Ideal Clinical Profile
Dry, dehydrated, and aging skin.
Contraindications
Those with dust mite allergies (proven cross-reactivity).
A resinous mixture produced by honeybees. It has powerful antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. For the skin, it is a magnificent healing agent that also provides a deep, natural glow (the 'honey skin' effect).
Primary Clinical Benefits
- Combats acne-causing bacteria
- Speeds up healing of blemishes
- Provides phenomenal antioxidant protection
- Adds a dewy finish to the skin
Ideal Clinical Profile
Acne-prone but dry or dehydrated skin.
Contraindications
Those with severe bee allergies.
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate
갈락토미세스 발효 여과물
A nutrient-dense yeast derived from the fermentation of sake. Discovered when brewers noticed their hands looked remarkably young despite their age. It is packed with vitamins, amino acids, and minerals.
Primary Clinical Benefits
- Brightens dull complexion
- Improves skin texture
- Regulates sebum production
- Increases absorption of other products
Ideal Clinical Profile
Dull, textured, or aging skin.
Contraindications
Those suffering from fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis), as ferments can exacerbate it.
Originally an oral medication to control bleeding, applied topically it interrupts the pathways that trigger melanin production. It is highly effective against melasma and post-inflammatory erythema (redness).
Primary Clinical Benefits
- Fades stubborn melasma
- Reduces PIE (red acne marks)
- Safe for long-term use unlike hydroquinone
Ideal Clinical Profile
Skin with persistent melasma or red acne marks.
Contraindications
No major contraindications for topical use.
Houttuynia Cordata (Heartleaf)
어성초
A medicinal herb from East Asia known for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. It is exceptionally rich in flavonoids, particularly Quercetin, which neutralizes free radicals.
Primary Clinical Benefits
- Rapidly calms angry, inflamed skin
- Detoxifies pores
- Soothes heat rashes
Ideal Clinical Profile
Hot, inflamed, or extremely sensitive acne-prone skin.
Contraindications
Safe for most users.
A weed with a long history in Korean traditional medicine (Hanbang). It is inherently warming (unlike Heartleaf which is cooling) and incredibly healing for battered barriers.
Primary Clinical Benefits
- Antioxidant-rich
- Relieves eczema and psoriasis symptoms
- Reduces hormonal breakouts
Ideal Clinical Profile
Stressed, mature, or eczema-prone skin.
Contraindications
Those with severe ragweed/mugwort pollen allergies.
Panax Ginseng Root Extract
인삼추출물
The crown jewel of Hanbang cosmetics. Ginseng contains powerful ginsenosides that boost blood circulation, increasing oxygen flow to skin cells to promote cell turnover and collagen production.
Primary Clinical Benefits
- Boosts circulation for a healthy flush
- Firms and tightens skin
- Provides intense energy to sluggish cells
- Fades wrinkles
Ideal Clinical Profile
Aging, tired, or dull skin lacking vitality.
Contraindications
Generally safe.
Polyglutamic Acid (PGA)
폴리글루타믹애씨드
A hydration powerhouse derived from fermented soybeans (natto). It holds up to 5,000 times its weight in water, significantly outperforming hyaluronic acid. It also forms a flexible, smooth film on the skin to prevent moisture evaporation.
Primary Clinical Benefits
- Unparalleled hydration
- Reduces appearance of fine lines instantly
- Enhances skin elasticity
- Inhibits hyaluronidase (an enzyme that breaks down natural HA)
Ideal Clinical Profile
Extremely dry or dehydrated skin.
Contraindications
Safe for all skin types.