Spicules In Skincare Are The New Kids On The Beauty Block
For those keeping tabs on new skincare ingredients and products, it can seem like there is always a new trend to try out. Recently, the skincare industry has seen various ingredients pop up and become new must-haves in every beauty drawer. From hydrating ingredients to products aimed at combating acne, these innovations have revolutionized where we source skincare ingredients. Part of this exploration stems from brands constantly looking for new ways to deliver solutions using technological advances. Finding ingredients that work well for a variety of skin types and tones promotes inclusivity in the skincare industry and helps address the diverse needs of consumers.
One of the newest stars in the skincare industry comes from an unlikely place but delivers a multitude of benefits. Spicules are the latest ingredient you'll likely start seeing in your skincare product due to their simple but potent characteristics. Found in the ocean, spicules are part of a recent trend of using natural ingredients to deliver minerals and nutrients that can't be replicated in a lab. Spicules are expected to explode in popularity due to their powerful ability to help you achieve your skincare goals.
What are spicules?
Spicules are composed of calcium or other minerals that dissolve in the skin after use. In nature, spicules are found in marine sponges as part of the exoskeleton that protects them from predators and environmental pollution. Unnie explains that spicules are needle-like structures that safely puncture the skin to deliver essential nutrients and minerals. Apart from acting as an exfoliator, spicules can help amplify the effects of your other skincare products. By piercing the skin, the spicules allow products to absorb better with more potency.
Apart from being found in skin care products, research has begun for the use of spicules in biomedicine. Because spicules are relatively new to the skincare industry, further research still has to be conducted to verify how effective they are in improving the skin. As of now, the only evidence is from consumers who have tested and stand by spicules as an alternative to exfoliating skin treatments.
The benefits of spicules
A major benefit of spicules is that they act as non-abrasive exfoliators that can help deliver nutrients as well. Elena's Beautique explains that spicule skincare products can increase collagen and elastin production (important for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness) by stimulating the skin and promoting better absorption of active ingredients. With increased collagen and elastin, skin appears healthier and younger-looking with a reduction in the prominence of fine lines and wrinkles. Since spicules are exfoliators, they can help to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and promoting a smoother, brighter complexion.
Another benefit of spicules is that they are sustainable and safe for use. Other physical exfoliators tend to have beads that can contaminate the environment once they hit the drain. Since spicules dissolve upon contact, they are a natural alternative to wasteful skincare products. While spicules themselves don't carry any nutrients or minerals, they amplify the effects of other skincare products, meaning they can deliver a high quantity of hydration if used in combination with other potent products.
How to use spicules in your skincare
The best way to use spicules in your skincare is by applying them early in your routine. Among the benefits of spicules is their ability to exfoliate dead skin cells and open pathways for subsequent products to absorb into the skin. Use spicules after cleansing and apply them as directed. Ensure that the spicules have dissolved into the skin before moving on to the next product. Once the spicules have dissolved into the skin, follow up with serums, oils, and moisturizers. You'll notice that these later skincare products will feel more potent after using them in combination with spicule skin products.
Beauty Recipe adds that there are other ways you can safely add spicules to your skincare. Since spicule treatments are compared to microneedling, you'll find that many salons offer spicules as part of a spa or skin treatment. If you're concerned about using spicules properly or want to use them with other skin treatments, heading to the salon might be the best method. Other spicule skincare products, such as masks and peels, are also available to help exfoliate the skin. No matter how you use spicules, be sure to do a patch test before applying. Like any exfoliant product, spicules can be irritating to the skin.
Who should use spicules?
Because spicules are gentler than most exfoliators, many people can enjoy their benefits. However, those with sensitive skin should conduct a patch test before applying the product to ensure it is safe. Spicules can also deliver results with less downtime and less irritation or pain than other exfoliating treatments. Spicules are ideal for those looking to expand their sustainable and eco-friendly skincare collection and are hoping to find natural alternatives to physical exfoliators. If your skin tends to collect dead skin cells, spicules will help remove them and liberate the skin. Spicules are ideal for those who often have trouble with skincare products not working at their full potential.
Spicules help improve the texture and appearance of the skin, making them great for those who are starting to show signs of aging. If you are starting to show signs of fine lines and wrinkles, spicules will help reduce the appearance and give you younger-looking skin. Spicules promote collagen production and improve skin hydration. Due to their exfoliating characteristics, spicules can also be used by those with oily skin. People with dry skin will also see improvement by combining spicules with hydrating skincare products.
Are spicules a better option than microneedling?
The use of spicules is often compared to microneedling treatments, which use tiny needles to puncture the skin and stimulate collagen production which promotes healing and improves its appearance, according to APDerm. The benefits of microneedling are the same as those of spicules, making them almost identical procedures. While they have similar benefits, microneedling is mainly done as part of skin treatment. Using spicules is an easier way to receive these benefits without having to leave your home.
How you use either treatment will also play a role in helping you decide which to choose. Microneedling involves a small handheld device used by a professional. Since this is a professional service, the cost is higher than picking up a spicule-infused skincare product. Also, microneedling can cause greater pain or discomfort. However, it's also important to note that microneedling can be done with varying degrees of depth, making it more tailored to your skin.