What is Spicule?
The Skeletal Structure of Sponges
Spicule is a microscopic siliceous needle-like structure that forms the skeleton of freshwater sponges. With the chemical formula SiO₂·nH₂O, lengths of 100–320μm and diameters of 10–15μm, it is roughly one-third to one-fifth the thickness of a human hair.
A Sponge's Defense Structure
Sponges use microscopic crystals called spicules as their skeletal framework to protect their bodies.
Pure Inorganic Silica
The main component is hydrated silicon dioxide (SiO₂·nH₂O) — a purely inorganic structure free of organic matter, leaving no residue on the skin.
Microchannel Formation
Forms micro-channels of average 48.6μm depth (850 channels/mm²) in the stratum corneum, raising hyaluronic acid (HA) absorption by over 19.4 times.
Spicule Key Figures
The History of Spicule
From centuries-old natural remedies to today's global B2B ingredient
Sponge-based natural exfoliation methods passed down through generations for skin beauty.
Professional procedures using Spicule were introduced in German dermatology clinics.
Recognized as a natural exfoliating ingredient in the Korean and Japanese beauty industries.
UNIZ LAB launched dedicated research into Spicule ingredients and cultivation technology.
Spread worldwide alongside the K-beauty boom as an alternative to microneedling.
UNIZ LAB now serves as the global standard, supplying 70% of the worldwide market.
Conventional Spicule vs UNIZ Engineered Spicule
Engineered through controlled cultivation and 23-step purification, UNIZ Spicule operates on a different level
| Comparison Item | Conventional Spicule | UNIZ Engineered Spicule |
|---|---|---|
| Source | ✕Wild harvest (unstable) | ✓Controlled cultivation (stable supply) |
| Purity | ✕50–80% | ✓Over 99% (23-step purification) |
| Particle Size Uniformity | ✕Inconsistent (quality variation) | ✓Within ±10μm (uniform) |
| Functional Integration | ✕Not possible | ✓Impregnation & encapsulation technology applied |
| Safety Validation | ✕Insufficient | ✓ISO certified + human application test |
| Production Capacity | ✕Limited (natural constraints) | ✓25 tons of large-scale annual production |
Spicule In-Depth
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Experience the difference of UNIZ Engineered Spicule for yourself.