Spicules as bio-microneedling in cosmetics
Spicules, also known as Hydrolyzed Sponge or Sponge Spicules, are fine mineral structures that come from freshwater sponges of the genus Spongilla. They have the shape of microscopic needles about 100–300 micrometres long. Under the microscope they look like perfectly regular little needles, which, applied correctly, can noticeably improve the quality of the skin.
How it works in practice
Once applied to the skin, gentle massaging brings them into the upper layer of the epidermis, where they create tiny microchannels. These work as natural gateways, through which active ingredients can travel far deeper than with the usual application of a serum. The result is similar to microneedling, but without the invasiveness of metal needles and without damaging the skin. Spicules also improve microcirculation, encourage cell renewal, support the formation of collagen and elastin, and additionally speed up natural exfoliation by helping to remove dead cells. After use, the skin is visibly smoother, more radiant and more supple.
Collagen stimulation
One of the most noticeable effects of spicules is their ability to support collagen formation. When the micro-needles reach the upper layer of the epidermis, the skin responds to them as to a tiny, controlled impulse, which activates the so-called repair response, which we can literally translate as the skin's reparative answer. Fibroblasts (the cells responsible for the suppleness and firmness of the skin) begin to produce more collagen and elastin in order to repair the microscopic disruption. Beyond this, spicules increase the permeability of the skin, which allows active ingredients such as PDRN, peptides or exosomes to travel deeper into the skin and support the formation of new collagen even further. The result is gradual firming, smoothing and rejuvenation of the complexion.
Spicules come in different intensities
The size and the strength of spicules are not the same thing
With spicules it is important to distinguish between their size and intensity, because these are two different parameters that determine how the product will work on the skin. The size of spicules is given in micrometres and represents the length of the micro-needle itself. Smaller spicules, roughly 100–150 µm, work more gently and reach only the surface layers of the skin, while spicules around 200–300 µm long travel deeper and offer a more intensive bio-microneedling effect.
It is the length of the spicule that influences how strong a sensation it creates on the skin. It is important to realise, though, that the strength of spicules does not mean their size. The strength, or intensity, of a product is tied to its concentration, that is, to how many spicules a single dose of serum contains. Numbers such as 500, 1000 or 2000 do not express the size of the micro-needles, but how many of them are inside. This means that even a serum marked 2000 can feel gentle if it contains smaller spicules. And the other way round, a product with a lower number can feel more noticeable if longer spicules are used in it. For women it is therefore good to know that the number on the packaging does not determine how strong the product is. What decides is the combination of both factors – the size as well as the quantity of spicules. It is precisely this that influences whether a product will feel gentle, moderately intensive, or better suited to more powerful renewing treatments.
How to welcome spicules into your skincare routine
How often to use them according to your skin type
Spicules are an intensive form of renewal and exfoliation, so welcoming them into your routine deserves thought rather than haste. Differences in skin type and in how well the skin tolerates them determine how often and in what way to use them well.
Recommended frequency
- For the first use: once every 3–4 weeks.
- Skin that responds well: once every 2–3 weeks.
- Intensive treatments (wrinkles, pigmentation, mature skin): once every 2 weeks, if well tolerated.
The most important thing is to give your skin the time to go through its whole renewal cycle.
How to apply a serum with spicules correctly
- Cleanse your skin with a gentle, non-aggressive cleanser.
- Apply the spicule serum to the skin and massage it in gently. Don't be alarmed, a tingling sensation is natural.
- After 5–10 minutes apply a moisturiser, or for a stronger effect use a peptide serum before the cream itself.
- Avoid using acids (AHA, BHA), retinoids or strong exfoliants for at least 48–72 hours.
- Use SPF, because after spicules the skin is more sensitive to UV radiation.
- For the first applications, use the product only 2-3 times a week. .
This approach matters for safe and effective skin renewal.
Who spicules suit best and for whom they are not recommended
Benefits and possible risks
Spicules are wonderful for women looking for intensive renewal, living with active acne or with marks left after acne. They will also be appreciated by those who long to improve and brighten the texture of their skin, support collagen formation and strengthen the skin barrier. They are especially loved by ladies with dull, tired skin, with a loss of elasticity or with an uneven tone.
Even so, they are not ideal for every skin type. Sensitive skin, rosacea, eczema or acute inflammation may react with irritation. It is also not advisable to combine them with strong acids or retinoids close to the time of use, as this can lead to excessive sensitivity. If unpleasant stinging, noticeable redness or dryness appears, it is best to replace spicules with a gentler alternative or to use them less often.
Bio-renewing power in practice: PDRN Exosome Spicule serum 2000
PDRN Exosome Spicule Serum 2000 brings together all the advantages of spicules with modern renewing actives — PDRN and exosomes. The high concentration of spicules (2000) ensures an intensive bio-microneedling effect, which awakens the skin and prepares it to absorb the active ingredients.
The spicules create natural microchannels, through which both PDRN and exosomes travel deeper. PDRN supports collagen formation, cell renewal and hydration, while exosomes improve communication between cells, support tissue renewal and harmonise the skin's functions.
This serum is ideal for skin that needs a visible improvement. This means above all evening out the texture, smoothing wrinkles, restoring elasticity, brightening and revitalising. Given its intensity, it is very important to use the serum consistently, with an emphasis on hydration and protection of the skin.
