Spicules (Hydrolyzed Sponge) 5 g

Organic spicules are a microscopic active ingredient delivery system.

Silicon spicules from a water sponge work through microneedle stimulation of the skin, gently enhancing cellular metabolism, triggering cell renewal and enhancing the formula's effectiveness without causing aggressive damage. By combining spicules with different types of active ingredients, impressive results can be achieved even with minimalist formulations. Biodegradability, proven effectiveness, and high compatibility make microneedles an ingredient that transforms a simple formula into a product with predictable, professional results.

Component Characteristics and Usage Instructions

INCI: Sponge microneedle

Appearance: White powder

Active ingredient concentration: 99% Min

Dosage (percentage of addition to cosmetics): 0.05 - 2%. Do not use directly on skin. Avoid inhalation and contact with mucous membranes.

Solubility: Dispersible in water at temperatures up to 40°C.

Use: Disperse in water and add to the finished cosmetic product.

Not recommended for combination with: aggressive acids, highly active retinoids, or essential oils.

Directions for use: Do not combine with aggressive acids, highly active retinoids, or essential oils. When applying spiculated cosmetics to the skin, especially the first time, a tingling or slight burning sensation, as well as temporary (reversible) redness, may occur. This is a normal physiological reaction of the skin, so it is recommended to begin using spiculated cosmetics gradually, taking breaks, and then switch to daily use after 1-2 weeks.

Storage: Store in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

Origin and Raw Materials for Spicules

Spicules are microscopic needle-like structures made of silica that are part of the skeleton of freshwater sponges (Porifera). Biologically, they perform a supporting and protective function in sponges.

For cosmetic use, sponges are purified, hydrolyzed, and the resulting spicules are standardized, thus preparing them for safe external use.

Key characteristics of spicules:

• Size - micron (significantly smaller than medical microneedles)
• Shape - pointed but fragile
• Composition - amorphous biogenic silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
• Origin - purely natural

Important! Spicules are not inert abrasives. Their action is based not on abrasion, but on pinpoint microstimulation of the skin.
 

Spicules vs. Sponge Microneedle

Sponge microneedle is a complex term describing the functional behavior of spicules when applied to the skin.

Simply put

Spicules is a scientific term for characterizing the structure
Sponge microneedle is a mechanism, i.e., a description of the action of spicules in cosmetics

They are not synonyms, but are always used together.

How spicules work on the skin

When spicules are introduced into a cosmetic formula (serum, mask, peel), they act like a microneedling system without puncturing the skin, mimicking the effect of microneedling without disrupting the integrity of the dermis.

The mechanism of action can be divided into several stages:

1. Interaction with the stratum corneum. When applied, the spicules penetrate only the upper layers of the epidermis, sparing blood vessels and nerve endings.
2. Micromechanical stimulation. Each needle triggers a controlled mechanical signal, which the skin perceives as a stimulus for renewal.
3. Enhanced transdermal delivery. Spicules temporarily increase the permeability of the epidermal barrier, enhancing the effectiveness of accompanying active ingredients. This is why sponge microneedles are often called a "delivery booster."
4. A biological response that triggers a cascade of natural reactions: activation of cell renewal (accelerated keratinocyte renewal); increased physiological exfoliation; stimulation of fibroblasts (associated with collagen and elastin synthesis); improved microcirculation.
    

Advantages of spicules

• quick "salon-like" effect
• no need for harsh acids
• enhanced formula action without increasing the amount of active ingredients
• increased product value
• a powerful marketing argument.
   

For the end user, these are:

• feeling the product working
• quick visual results, improved skin texture and pore tightening
• reduced dullness, the effect of renewed, "radiant" skin.
   

Studies on the effectiveness of microneedles

Laboratory studies (in vitro) on keratinocyte cultures have shown:

• acceleration of cell renewal
• increased expression of factors associated with skin regeneration
• absence of cytotoxicity at the correct dosage.

Clinical observations (in vivo) and controlled trials involving volunteers have confirmed:

• smoothing of skin microrelief
• reduction in the severity of post-acne scars
• increased skin brightness and density
• temporary (reversible) redness as a physiological reaction without damaging the dermis.

The effect increases with The duration of treatment depends directly on the concentration and method of administration.
 

What products use spicules?

• Serums for rapid skin renewal
• Activating masks
• Acid-free peels
• Acne and comedone treatments
• Anti-aging formulas
• Professional cosmetics for aestheticians
• Niche natural brands.

Handmade cosmetics recipes, formulas and reviews

It is very difficult to create your own correct recipes if you are new to cream maker. And we are ready to help you with this. Go to the YouTube channel Beurre Cosmetic Kitchen, where we have already developed many recipes for handmade cosmetics and share the technology for making cosmetics with our own hands. And also you can check Blog from Beurre, where we share useful information about creating the right natural cosmetics.