If you peek into the tiniest cupboard in my kitchen, you would discover a collection of first-aid essentials: Elastoplast plasters, paper-wrapped wound dressings, sterile latex gloves, surgical tape, and a tube of La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume, priced at £11. I am not alone in this habit; many consultant dermatologists would likely confess to having a similar stash, highlighting the crossover between beauty and practical healthcare.
More Than Just Beauty Products
Certain cosmetic creams transcend their role as mere beauty products, proving indispensable in everyday life. A rich, straightforward, multipurpose emollient should be considered essential family kit, adept at soothing and healing a variety of skin ailments. From scalds and grazes to rashes and other signs of irritated skin, these creams offer gentle relief and support the skin's natural recovery processes.
The Power of Cica
What sets the best of these creams apart is their inclusion of cica, also known as Centella asiatica or tiger grass in South Korean skincare traditions. This wild plant, native to tropical and subtropical regions across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, is celebrated for its skin-calming properties. It excels at supporting a compromised skin barrier, whether due to illness, everyday injuries, or lifestyle factors, making it a versatile ally in skin health.
Cica creams are not classified as medicines, but they are generally harmless and free from side effects for most users. In my professional experience, they are widely endorsed by medical personnel and experts to safely complement conventional treatments. There is no compelling reason to forgo having one readily available in your home.
Top Cica Cream Recommendations
La Roche-Posay's thick, unctuous, and instantly comforting balm remains my personal favourite. However, driven by a recent episode of increased dryness, skin sensitivity, and stress—triggered by a clinical-strength prescription retinoid—I have taken the opportunity to test other cica products on the market.
Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream
Priced at £10, Avène's Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream is marketed for the whole family and is suitable for any age, including newborns. Rich, unctuous, and packed with glycerin, it envelops the skin in a moisture blanket. Beyond cica, it contains naturally antibacterial ingredients, making it effective for treating minor burns, knee grazes, and similar issues. This makes it an ideal handbag treatment for everyday emergencies, offering both comfort and protection.
Bioderma Cicabio Ultra-Repairing Soothing Cream
For £12, Bioderma's Cicabio Ultra-Repairing Soothing Cream provides all the benefits of a cica cream with the added advantage of SPF50 protection. This feature is particularly valuable, as injured, broken, or postoperative skin is more susceptible to scarring when exposed to UV rays. I have worn it frequently during the day and found it effective at reducing redness, though it may not be as richly moisturising as some alternatives. This could be a positive aspect for those with oilier skin who find most balms too greasy, offering a lighter option without compromising on benefits.
All three products are suitable for use from head to toe, ensuring versatility in addressing various skin concerns. By incorporating a cica cream into your first-aid kit, you equip yourself with a powerful tool for maintaining skin health and comfort in daily life.
