Spicules have become one of the most talked-about ingredients in K-Beauty, particularly thanks to products such as Reedle Shot, booster serums, and skincare treatments designed to smooth skin texture, minimize the appearance of pores, and enhance the absorption of active ingredients.

Spicules are microscopic, needle-like structures used in certain skincare products to create temporary microchannels in the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin), helping active ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively. In K-Beauty formulations, they may appear on ingredient lists (INCI) under names such as Hydrolyzed Sponge or as part of proprietary technologies like Cica Reedle™.

Importantly, skincare products containing spicules are not the same as professional microneedling performed with medical devices. These products contain microparticles that are applied topically, and their intensity and mechanism of action differ from professional dermatological procedures.

Spicules are typically derived from the microscopic silica structures of marine or freshwater sponges. Studies on sponge spicules have shown that they can increase skin permeability and facilitate the delivery of certain molecules through the epidermis.

In skincare, this technology is used to help support:

• smoother skin texture;
• a more even-looking complexion;
• minimized appearance of pores;
• enhanced absorption of active ingredients;
• improved skin radiance;
• firmer-looking skin;
• anti-aging skincare routines.

However, the overall results depend on the complete formulation, not just the presence of spicules. Ingredients such as niacinamide, Centella Asiatica, peptides, hyaluronic acid, PDRN, and antioxidants can also play an important role in a product’s effectiveness.

A mild tingling, prickling, or “microneedle-like” sensation during application can be normal. This sensation occurs due to the mechanical contact between the spicules and the skin’s outermost layer. Product descriptions at MoonGlow also indicate that mild tingling may occur after application.

However, it is important to distinguish between:

• Mild, temporary tingling and
• Intense burning, persistent pain, or severe redness.

If you experience any of the following:

• severe burning;
• swelling;
• persistent itching;
• significant inflammation;
• irritation that does not subside,

you should discontinue use of the product.

Spicule-based skincare products do not need to cause pain to be effective.

The recommended frequency of use depends largely on the specific product.

As a general guideline:

For example, the Oarete Wanghaeguk Pepta-Cellular Rejuvenation Spicule Ampoule available at MoonGlow is recommended for use twice a week, but no more frequently than once every three days.

Always follow the frequency of use specified on the product packaging, as it takes priority over general skincare guidelines.

If you’re using a spicule-based skincare product for the first time, keep your routine simple. A suitable routine may look like this:

1. Gentle cleansing – Cleanse your skin without using scrubs, cleansing brushes, or other harsh mechanical exfoliation methods.
2. Spicule-based product – Apply the product to clean, dry skin, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Hydration and soothing care – Follow with gentle, hydrating products that help support the skin barrier.

Beneficial ingredients to use after spicules:

• hyaluronic acid;
• panthenol;
• beta-glucan;
• Centella Asiatica;
• ceramides;
• squalane;
• peptides, if well tolerated by your skin.

Apply SPF every morning.

Sun protection is especially important when your skincare routine includes exfoliating products or ingredients that may temporarily increase skin sensitivity.

Spiculele cresc temporar reactivitatea pielii și pot facilita pătrunderea ingredientelor. De aceea, suprapunerea cu prea mulți activi puternici poate crește riscul de iritație.

La început, este mai prudent să nu folosești în aceeași seară:

• AHA;
• BHA;
• peelinguri chimice puternice;
• retinol sau retinal;
• benzoyl peroxide;
• vitamina C în concentrații mari, mai ales acid L-ascorbic;
• scruburi mecanice;
• alte produse cu spicule.

Cine ar trebui să fie precaut?

Produsele cu spicule pot să nu fie cea mai bună alegere pentru:

• piele cu bariera afectată;
• dermatită activă;
• eczemă;
• rozacee activă sau foarte reactivă;
• leziuni deschise;
• arsuri solare;
• inflamație severă;
• piele imediat după proceduri dermatologice.

Instead of choosing a product based on the idea that “higher concentration is better,” focus on your skin’s specific needs and goals:

MoonGlow offers a dedicated selection of skincare products with spicules and cosmetic microneedles, featuring formulas with different intensity levels and targeted skincare benefits.

For Beginners: VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 100 50 ml

A booster serum featuring Cica Reedle™, Centella Asiatica, hyaluronic acid, and propolis, designed to improve skin texture, minimize the appearance of pores, and promote a smoother, more even-looking complexion. It is an excellent choice for those looking to explore spicule technology before moving on to more intensive formulas.

For Radiance: VT Cosmetics Vita-Light Reedle Shot 100 50 ml

This formula combines Cica Reedle™ spicules with vitamin C, 5% niacinamide, glutathione, astaxanthin, and vitamin E to help boost radiance, even out skin tone, and reduce the appearance of post-acne marks. Since the formula already contains brightening active ingredients, there is no need to automatically add another potent vitamin C serum to the same skincare routine.

For Firmness: VT Cosmetics Collagen Reedle Shot 100 50 ml

Designed to improve skin firmness, elasticity, hydration, and texture, this formula combines Cica Reedle™ technology with anti-aging skincare ingredients.

For More Intensive Care: VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 300 50 ml

A more intensive option than Reedle Shot 100, designed for less frequent use. It targets uneven skin texture, visible pores, pigmentation, and visible signs of aging. We recommend using it approximately once every 3–5 days.

For Intensive Treatment: VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 700 30 ml

Reedle Shot 700 is an intensive treatment recommended by MoonGlow for use approximately 1–2 times per week, as part of a carefully balanced skincare routine.

For Advanced Anti-Aging Care: Oarete Wanghaeguk Pepta-Cellular Rejuvenation Spicule Ampoule 55 ml

This formula combines Hydrolyzed Sponge, PDRN, Centella Asiatica-derived exosomes, peptides, collagen, and multiple forms of hyaluronic acid. It is designed to support advanced anti-aging care, improve skin firmness, and promote skin renewal.

For a Gentler Formula: JMsolution Skin Boost Spicule 0.02 30 ml

Formulated with 0.02% Hydrolyzed Sponge, niacinamide, Centella Asiatica, panthenol, and hydrating ingredients, this product offers a gentler option that can be more easily incorporated into a skincare routine focused on improving radiance and smoothing skin texture.

Spicules are an innovative technology in skincare, but products containing them should be treated as potent active treatments rather than just another step in your daily routine.

The key is to choose the right intensity, introduce the product gradually, avoid unnecessarily combining it with other powerful active ingredients, and maintain a consistent routine focused on hydration and sun protection.

At moonglow.md, you can explore skincare products with spicules and cosmetic microneedles from K-Beauty brands such as VT Cosmetics, Oarete, JMsolution, Trimay, and ISOV, with formulas designed for different skin needs and levels of intensity.

MoonGlow’s selection includes spicule-based serums, boosters, creams, and masks, all available online. Orders placed at moonglow.md benefit from delivery throughout the Republic of Moldova.

Choose the right intensity for your skin, introduce new products gradually, and complement your routine with proper hydration and sun protection for balanced, effective skincare.