Cica vs Niacinamide: how they differ and how to combine them
K-LAB · 19 Nis 2026
On Korean skincare shelves these two always sit side by side. One soothes, the other helps with oiliness and even tone. The good news: you do not have to choose.
What does cica (Centella asiatica) do?
With compounds such as madecassoside and asiaticoside, centella soothes skin and helps the barrier recover. It feels calming on post-acne redness, after too much sun or on skin made sensitive by a treatment. For diagnosed conditions such as rosacea, it does not replace the treatment your dermatologist recommends.
What does niacinamide (vitamin B3) do?
Niacinamide helps balance oil, makes pores look less visible, evens tone and strengthens the barrier. It has been studied most at 2 to 5%; on sensitive skin, 10% and above can cause redness. Its effect usually shows in 4 to 8 weeks.
Which one is for you?
If your skin flushes and stings easily, centella. If oiliness, visible pores or dark spots come first, niacinamide. If you have both concerns, use both.
Can they be used together?
Yes. They have no known conflict, and many products combine both in one formula. If you use separate products, apply the more watery one first (usually the niacinamide serum), then the richer one (for example a centella cream); there is no need to wait in between.
Recommended products
For centella: Natinda Pine Needle Calming Cica Cream. For niacinamide: Rivecowe Collagen Tone-up Cream or Patch Holic Sleeping Mask with 2% niacinamide. All come from K-LAB's official distributor stock.