Centella Asiatica (Cica) for Delicate Eyelid Skin

By Nizam Diveli, registered optometrist and founder of BlinkBetter

Centella asiatica, often called cica or gotu kola, is a plant used for centuries for skin care. Its active compounds are studied for soothing and skin-supporting properties, which is why it appears in products for sensitive skin, including around the eyes.

What is it?

Centella is a small herb from the parsley family. Its main active compounds are triterpenes: asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid (Bylka et al., review).

What does the evidence say?

Lab and animal studies show centella supports collagen production and calms inflammatory signals in skin cells (2024 review). Human evidence is more limited: a systematic review on wound healing found only four clinical trials and called for more research (Arribas-López et al. 2022). In skincare, it's best seen as a soothing, skin-conditioning ingredient, not a medicine.

Is it safe around the eyes?

Centella is generally well tolerated in cosmetics, and it's popular in sensitive-skin products. Allergy is uncommon but possible, so stop if you notice redness or itching.

Which BlinkBetter products contain it?

• BetterScrub eyelid wipes
• Eyelid Cleansing Foam
• BetterLids eye cream
• CicaRoller+ eye roller

This page is general information about a cosmetic or device ingredient, not medical advice. If you have a known allergy or a sore, red eye, speak to an optometrist or pharmacist before using new products around your eyes.

More ingredient guides: all ingredients · Eye care guides: the Journal