Centella vs Heartleaf vs Mugwort: Korean Skincare Guide (2026)
Share
Last updated: September 2026 | Written by the COLORCITY skincare team
Centella, heartleaf and mugwort appear in many Korean skincare products. They are different botanical ingredients, and each can be used in a range of cosmetic formulas.
The plant name alone cannot predict whether a product will suit your skin. Compare the complete ingredient list, product format and directions alongside the skin feel you prefer.
This guide explains the names and compares examples at COLORCITY. Product pages show current pricing and availability, with delivery within Australia only.
Quick Comparison
| Ingredient | Names to recognise | Compare | Common formats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centella | Centella asiatica; CICA | Full formula and directions | Serums, creams and masks |
| Heartleaf | Houttuynia cordata | Full formula and directions | Toners, serums and cleansers |
| Mugwort | Artemisia species; check the exact label | Full formula and directions | Essences and masks |
1. Centella Asiatica (CICA) — The All-Rounder
Names: Centella asiatica is also called gotu kola or tiger grass. Madecassoside is a compound associated with centella, not another name for the whole plant.
In skincare: You may see centella extract or individual compounds such as madecassoside and asiaticoside on a label. These names do not establish that a retail product heals wounds or has the effects of a medical preparation.
Choosing a product: Look at the full formula and directions. A centella label does not make a product automatically safe for every sensitive skin type.
Best Centella Products
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 100ml
This watery ampoule combines Madagascan Centella Asiatica extract with hydrating ingredients including glycerin and butylene glycol. It is designed to hydrate and comfort delicate skin. Apply an appropriate amount evenly and pat until absorbed. The linked product page lists the full ingredients, current price and Australian delivery details for the 100ml bottle.
Shop SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 100ml
COSRX Centella Blemish Cream 30ml
This 30ml cream lists centella leaf water and zinc oxide. Check the full ingredient list and the product’s application instructions. It should not be described as a guaranteed treatment for acne, scarring or injured skin.
Shop COSRX Centella Blemish Cream
Purito Wonder Releaf Centella Serum Unscented 60ml
This is the 60ml product listing for Purito Wonder Releaf Centella Serum Unscented. Compare the exact pack and ingredient list, since versions can change. The name does not establish a fermented-centella formula or guarantee tolerance for reactive skin.
Torriden Balanceful Cica Serum 50ml
Torriden Balanceful Cica Serum is a 50ml serum option. Compare its listed ingredients with the rest of your routine and follow the current product directions.
Beauty of Joseon Light On Serum Centella + Vita C 30ml
Light On Serum combines centella with the vitamin C derivative 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid. Consider it for cosmetic tone care, following the label and daytime sun protection directions. Sensitivity varies between users.
2. Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata) — Botanical Skincare Ingredient
Also known as: Eoseongcho (Korean), Fish Mint, Houttuynia
In skincare: Heartleaf appears in cleansers, toners and serums. Its presence alone does not establish that a cosmetic kills acne-causing bacteria, treats a skin infection or works better than a centella product.
Choosing a product: Compare the formula and format for the step you need, such as a cleanser or hydrating toner.
Best Heartleaf Products
Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner 250ml
Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner is a watery toner featuring heartleaf extract, with glycerin, betaine and panthenol in the listed formula. It should not be presented as a PHA exfoliating toner. Follow its directions after cleansing.
Anua Heartleaf 80% Soothing Ampoule 30ml
This ampoule lists 80% heartleaf extract with panthenol, betaine and sodium hyaluronate. Use it as directed as a hydrating serum step. It is not an emergency treatment for sunburn, post-peel skin or breakouts.
Shop Anua Heartleaf 80 Ampoule
Abib Heartleaf Spot Pad Calming Touch — 80 Pads
These are pre-soaked toner pads in an 80-pad pack. Follow the pack’s directions for each side and avoid forceful rubbing. A textured pad is not automatically suitable for irritated skin.
Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil 200ml
A cleansing oil for removing makeup and sunscreen. Use the product’s directions for massaging, adding water and rinsing; do not infer an antibacterial or treatment effect from the heartleaf name.
3. Mugwort (Artemisia) — The Hidden Gem
Names: Mugwort is associated with Artemisia plants; cosmetic labels may name different species. Check the botanical name on the exact product.
In skincare: Mugwort appears in cosmetic essences and masks. The ingredient name does not establish treatment for hormonal acne, itching or a skin condition.
Choosing a product: Compare the full formula and packet directions rather than assuming a mugwort product is safer or more effective than another botanical formula.
Best Mugwort Products
Sheet masks are one way to try a mugwort-containing formula. Choose by the complete ingredients and stated wear time; visible calming within a fixed number of minutes is not guaranteed.
I'm From Mugwort Sheet Mask 1pc
A single sheet mask from I’m From’s mugwort range. Check the packet’s ingredients and wear time. A range name does not mean its formula is identical to the brand’s bottled essence.
Isntree Mugwort Calming Mask Pack
Isntree’s mugwort mask is another sheet option. Compare the current pack size and price, then follow the packet directions for application and removal.
Round Lab Mugwort Calming Mask 1pc
Round Lab’s mugwort mask is a single-mask option. Use the specific product’s ingredient list and directions to decide whether it fits your routine.
Which One Should YOU Use?
| Routine preference | Option to compare | Product example |
|---|---|---|
| Watery serum step | Centella-containing ampoule | SKIN1004 Ampoule 100ml |
| Hydrating toner step | Heartleaf-containing toner | Anua Heartleaf Toner |
| Vitamin C derivative serum | Centella + 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid | BoJ Light On Serum |
| Cream format | Centella-containing cream | COSRX Blemish Cream |
| Mugwort sheet format | Single-use mask | I’m From Mugwort Mask |
| Alternative mugwort sheet | Compare full formula | Round Lab Mugwort Mask |
| Pre-soaked toner format | Heartleaf-containing pads | Abib Heartleaf Pads |
Can You Layer Them?
You do not need all three botanicals. Whether products can share a routine depends on their full formulas, directions and your tolerance. Possible formats to compare include:
- Cleanser: Anua Heartleaf Cleansing Oil for a cleansing step.
- Toner: Anua Heartleaf 77% Toner for a hydrating toner step.
- Ampoule: SKIN1004 Centella Ampoule as a serum-format option.
- Optional mask: I’m From Mugwort Mask, following its packet directions.
- Moisturiser: Choose a formula that suits your needs; it does not have to share the same botanical.
Introduce one new product at a time so you can judge your response. Do not add more products to persistently irritated skin simply to include all three ingredients.
Choosing Your Next Step
For a watery ampoule format, compare the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 100ml and its full ingredient list.
For a toner format, compare Anua Heartleaf 77% Toner. It is not a substitute for individual acne-treatment advice.
For an occasional mask, compare the mugwort options and follow their own wear and storage directions.
Choose the product format you need and keep the routine manageable. No botanical guarantees visible results within a week, and persistent skin concerns may need professional advice.
Shop All Calming Skincare at COLORCITY
Free standard shipping on orders over $100 AUD | Orders processed in 1-3 business days | 100% authentic K-beauty