Spicules are one of the latest, buzziest ingredients on the Korean skin care scene. This niche scientific word refers to tiny, needlelike pieces of marine sponges that get added to products to help with the absorption of active ingredients—for example, if you want your hyaluronic acid to penetrate the skin better. These microscopic sponge particles also act as natural exfoliators that can help with signs of aging, as well as dark spots and acne.
However, if you’re feeling a tad wary about putting sea creature skeletons on your face, I get it! Let me tell you about an equally (if not more) effective Korean alternative combo: the Skin Wand Pro device used with the HOUSE OF PLLA HOP+ CAVIPLLA+O2 Multi-Serum. When used together, the results are skin that looks radiant, moisturized, and healthy—no dead marine animals required!
PLLA: The Powerhouse Ingredient
A staple of my favorite Korean skin care routines, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) helps stimulate collagen production. It regenerates the skin on a cellular level, stimulating your body’s natural collagen production. This can help restore natural firmness and elasticity, improve the overall quality of your skin, and make your face glow like the sun.
When used properly over time, PLLA is a fantastic anti-aging product, helping to reduce wrinkles and fine lines and refine your pore size. So, how should you go about using this collagen-boosting ingredient?
The HOUSE OF PLLA HOP+ CAVIPLLA+O2 Multi-Serum—or, simply, CaviPLLA—is a
PLLA-rich serum that’s specifically formulated to increase collagen production and elasticity. In addition to the powers of PLLA, this revolutionary serum boasts potent ingredients like caviar extract, tripeptide-1, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and Nelumbo nucifera (sacred lotus) seed extract. Together, this powerful cocktail of ingredients can visibly reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture and radiance, hydrate deeply, and refresh the complexion. However, if you want to achieve the best results possible, combine the CaviPLLA with a revolutionary treatment: nano channeling.
Spicules vs. Nano Channeling
Whether you’re a beauty devotee or skincare novice, the best way to incorporate PLLA serum into your routine is by using it in conjunction with one of my favorite advanced regenerative techniques: nano channeling. Gentler—and in my opinion, safer for at-home use—than microneedling, nano channeling is well-suited for sensitive skin types. It’s designed for thinner skin and more sensitive areas of the face and only targets the uppermost layer of the skin.
Pro tip: Because of its relative gentleness, nano channeling can be done every week and is great for use in your at-home routine. Microneedling, by contrast, should only be done every four to six weeks to protect the skin barrier. (See here for more of my thoughts on microneedling versus nano channeling.)
Enter the Skin Wand Pro, which lives up to its name—and then some! This super effective (and easy-to-use) device creates ultra-fine channels in the skin at down to .15 mm, which is the ideal depth to create a controlled inflammation. This, in turn, allows for increased product penetration, so you reap the benefits of a powerful serum like the CaviPLLA.
Pro Tip: Use your nano channeling device with a high-quality serum to maximize the effectiveness of its valuable ingredients. I also recommend the CBE Botanicals Brighten the Day Skin Brightening Serum and the CBE Botanicals 4D Quench Hyaluronic Serum. (Don't use a nano channeling device with a vitamin A treatment like retinol—retinol should stay at the surface.)
Combining the Skin Wand Pro with the CaviPLLA will help the active ingredients in the serum work more effectively, offering better, more long-lasting results. With regular use, your skin can appear smoother, glowier, and more youthful-looking over time.
How to Combine for Impressive Results
The Skin Wand Pro essentially “roughs up” the uppermost dead layers of skin. When you use it with the CaviPLLA, the serum can better infuse the skin with a healthy, dewy glow. That said, it’s important to know how to properly incorporate these two in your skin care routine. Here, I’ve addressed some of the most common questions I get when it comes to using the CaviPLLA and Skin Wand Pro together:
How do I use a nano channeling device with a serum?
First, cleanse and gently exfoliate—I recommend using the HOUSE OF PLLA HOP + Pilleo Skin Prep to prepare your skin, as it's suitable for all skin types. Apply your serum and allow it to absorb. Then, gently glide your nano channeling device over your face in a circular motion.
How often can I use the Skin Wand Pro?
I recommend using the Skin Wand Pro one to three times a week for best results. (Do note that results may vary depending on your skin type and needs.)
How often do I need to replace the tips?
It's best to replace the tips every four to five times you use the Skin Wand Pro (if you're doing a full face).
Does using the Skin Wand Pro cause any pain or discomfort?
No, nano channeling with the Skin Wand Pro should never cause any pain or discomfort. You may feel a slight tingle after use, which typically only lasts for 30 to 45 minutes (and indicates it's working). Some people describe this as feeling like they're being licked by a cat's tongue!
When can I expect to see results with the Skin Wand Pro and CaviPLLA?
You may notice a dewy complexion and a nice glow within just a few days of using these two together. Over time (after a few months), you’ll likely notice that your pores appear more refined, and any wrinkles and fine lines should look reduced.
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