Ultimate Guide to VT Reedle Shot: In-Depth Review

Today we’re diving into something that’s been making waves on social media and sparking curiosity across the skincare community—the VT Reedle Shot. If you’ve been wondering, “What exactly are spicules? Are they safe? Do they really work?” then you’re in the right place.

In partnership with VT Cosmetics, I’m excited to share everything you need to know about spicule skincare and my personal experience with the VT Reedle Shot over the past 30 days.

What Are Spicules (Hydrolyzed Sponges)?

Spicules, also known as hydrolyzed sponges, are tiny particles made from marine sponges, primarily composed of calcium and silica. They look like miniature spikes and work wonders for skincare absorption. Due to their structure, spicules create microchannels in the skin, allowing products to penetrate more deeply and effectively. Think of them as “microneedling in a bottle.”

How Do Spicules Work?

To understand how spicules work, let’s delve into a quick skin anatomy lesson. Our skin comprises three main layers: the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. The epidermis, the top layer, is where we apply our skincare products and see most issues. It’s constantly shedding dead skin cells and replacing them with new ones. The dermis, underneath, contains collagen, elastin, blood vessels, nerve endings, and glands, providing structural support and elasticity.

Spicules create microchannels in the stratum corneum, the outermost part of the epidermis. These channels enhance product absorption, allowing active ingredients to penetrate more deeply and effectively. Limited research suggests that spicules remain in the outer layer for about 72 hours, naturally shedding with dead skin cells during cleansing, toning, or exfoliating.

Factors like your skin type, thickness, and age can affect how quickly your skin sheds these sponges. For example, at 37, my skin might shed them a bit slower compared to someone in their mid-20s.

Benefits of Spicules

Spicules act as physical exfoliators, helping to remove impurities, dead skin cells, and excess oils, which can improve dark spots and acne. Although the data is limited, studies on hydrolyzed sponges show improved absorption of large molecules like RNA and growth factors, with benefits such as smoother skin, reduced wrinkles, and improved skin texture.

The Science Behind Spicules

You might be curious about the research backing spicules. They’re a relatively new skincare ingredient, so data is somewhat limited. Most studies have been on animals, showing improved absorption of large molecules like RNA and growth factors. However, animal skin isn’t the same as human skin, so results may vary.

There are a few human studies from Korea. One study with 20 participants focusing on eye wrinkles showed significant improvement with spicules. Another study with 30-60 Korean women noted enhancements in acne, skin texture, and fine lines using hydrolyzed sponges. These studies didn’t report any irritation or side effects, but keep in mind, they were conducted on small groups.

So, what do we know so far?

• Exfoliation and Absorption: Hydrolyzed spicules help with exfoliation, leading to smoother, brighter skin and improvements in hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and acne. They stay in your skin’s outer layer for about 72 hours and shed naturally with dead skin cells.
• Safety: No significant reports of irritation or other complications, but more extensive research is needed to confirm these findings 100%. Always consider your skin type and do a patch test first.

Potential Risks

As with any skincare product, there are risks. Over-exfoliation can disrupt your skin barrier, causing redness or irritation. Increased absorption of skincare products isn’t always beneficial, especially for potent actives like retinoids, chemical exfoliants, and vitamin C. With limited data, it’s essential to be cautious and continue researching to fully understand spicules’ long-term effects.

I feel comfortable using spicules in my routine, but it’s essential to listen to your skin and adjust based on its response. If you’re risk-averse, it’s perfectly okay to wait for more research before diving in. You do you!

VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot

VT Cosmetics developed the Cica Reedle line, featuring purified hydrolyzed sponges coated with Centella Asiatica (Cica). This soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredient calms irritated skin and promotes healing. The line includes five concentrations, ranging from 50 to 1,000, catering to different skin types and needs.

Reedle Shot Concentrations

• 50 & 100 Reedle Shots: Daily use for sensitive skin or beginners. Lightweight gel texture. Mild prickling sensation, around 3 out of 10.
• 300 Reedle Shot: Use every three days. Lightweight gel. Moderate prickling, around 5 out of 10.
• 700 Reedle Shot: Best for weekly use. Creamy texture. Noticeable prickling, around 7 out of 10, with a lingering sensation.
• 1,000 Reedle Shot: Spot treatment, intense care for stubborn areas. Most intense prickling, around 8 out of 10, longer-lasting sensation.

The VT Reedle shot can be purchased on Amazon.

Key Ingredients

These products also contain niacinamide, centella, adenosine, and vitamin E, which help reduce inflammation, brighten skin, and improve texture.

Ingredient benefits:

Niacinamide: Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, helps reduce inflammation, control sebum production, and minimize pore size. It also improves skin elasticity and strengthens the skin barrier, leading to a brighter and more even complexion.

Centella Asiatica: Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, Centella Asiatica has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It promotes wound healing, reduces scarring, and soothes irritated skin.

Adenosine: Adenosine has anti-wrinkle and anti-inflammatory benefits. It boosts collagen production, helping to smooth out fine lines and improve skin texture.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage. It also nourishes and moisturizes the skin, enhancing its overall health and appearance.

My 30-Day Experience

I’ve been testing the VT Reedle Shot for a month. My skin was struggling with breakouts, cystic acne, and dark spots from testing different skincare products.

How I Used the Reedle Shot in My Skincare Routine

Week 1

In the morning, I started with the 50 Reedle Shot. After cleansing, I applied it directly. It had a hydrating gel texture that absorbed quickly, and the prickling sensation was mild, around 3 out of 10. I followed up with azelaic acid, a barrier serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen.

At night, I used the 100 Reedle Shot. After double cleansing, I applied it and followed with a hydrating face mask from VT. The mask felt like snail mucin—cooling, hydrating, and soothing. It minimized the prickling sensation significantly. I then applied my barrier serum and moisturizer. After a few hours, I could no longer feel the prickling sensation in my skin, even when I pressed down and tried to search for them.

Results: In the first week, my skin felt noticeably softer, and I experienced fewer breakouts. The spicules helped clear out impurities and dead skin cells.

Week 2:

Since I had no irritation with the 50 and 100 Reedle Shots, I upgraded to the 300 Reedle Shot three times a week, using the 100 on other nights and started to use it with my retinoids. I stopped using the 50 during the day. Instead, I used my BHA toner about 3-4 times per week to help treat and prevent my breakouts.

The 300 Reedle Shot had a similar lightweight gel texture but with more spicules, making it feel spicier—about a 5 out of 10. It absorbed quickly, leaving my skin smooth and hydrated. Similar to the 50 and 100, I couldn’t really feel the spicules after a few hours. If I pressed on my skin and really “searched for them,” I could slightly feel them in my skin. But the next day, this sensation was gone.

Results: By the second week, dark spots reduced and my skin tone improved. The spicules’ microchannels enhanced product absorption.

Weeks 3 & 4:

Curious about the 700 concentration, I used it once a week, continuing the 300 twice a week and the 100 on other nights.The 700 Reedle Shot had a creamy texture and was the spiciest—6 out of 10. The spicules lingered longer on my skin, still noticeable after a few hours unlike the 300 concentration. I also could sometimes feel them in my skin the next morning.

Results: During weeks three and four, my skin’s evenness and brightness improved significantly. The combination of spicules with hydrating ingredients like centella and niacinamide worked wonders. By week four, my skin texture had improved, acne reduced, and dark spots faded considerably, leaving my skin radiant and healthy.

FAQs

Is the VT Reedle Shot Safe for Sensitive Skin?

Yes, especially the 50 and 100 concentrations. Always patch test first. If you have eczema or rosacea, be cautious, as physical exfoliation can potentially worsen these conditions.

Is It Good for Dry Skin?

Absolutely. Pair it with hydrating products and a rich moisturizer. Apply the Reedle Shot first, followed by a hydrating toner or face mask, and then hydrating serums containing panthenol, hyaluronic acid, centella, or propolis. Finish with an occlusive moisturizer to lock in hydration.

Can I Use It with Other Actives?

Test carefully, especially with strong actives like retinoids and acids. I found it worked well with my BHAs and retinoids. When using with BHAs, apply them in the morning and the Reedle Shot at night. For retinoids, I applied the Reedle Shot first, followed by a hydrating toner, retinoid, barrier-protecting serum, and moisturizer.

Can I Use It with Skincare Devices?

Yes, but not in the same routine. Alternate usage days for best results. For example, use your skincare device in the morning and the Reedle Shot at night, or use the device on days when you don’t use the Reedle Shot.

How Long Does the Stinging Last?

About 5 minutes. The stinging sensation is mild and indicates the product is working. If you experience prolonged irritation, reduce frequency or switch to a lower concentration.

What If I Experience Irritation?

Reduce the frequency of use or switch to a lower concentration. Use a hydrating, barrier-supporting moisturizer and avoid pairing with other strong actives. If irritation persists, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

Key Takeaways

Hydration is crucial when using the Reedle Shot. It can dry out your skin, so pair it with moisturizing products. I preferred the 300 and 700 concentrations, using them twice a week and once a week, respectively. Additionally, incorporating a sheet mask or hydrating toner after applying the Reedle Shot provides extra hydration.

Overall, the VT Reedle Shot has been a game-changer for my skincare routine. It helped reduce breakouts, fade dark spots, and improve my skin texture. If you’re considering trying it, make sure to patch test first and listen to your skin’s needs.

I hope this guide helps you understand and confidently try the VT Reedle Shot. Drop a comment below if you’ve tried it or plan to. I’d love to hear about your experiences and thoughts.

References:

Han, D.-S. and Kim, G.-S. (2021) ‘Subjective Skin Improvement and Safety of the Spicules-containing Cosmetics’, Journal of Convergence for Information Technology, 11(8), pp. 212–223. doi:10.22156/CS4SMB.2021.11.08.212. 

Kim, T.G. et al. (2022) ‘A novel dermal delivery system using natural spicules for cosmetics and therapeutics’, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 21(10), pp. 4754–4764. doi:10.1111/jocd.14771. 

Lee, C.H. and Choi, B.S. (2019) ‘Improvement of facial acne on skin with 3% spicule’, Asian Journal of Beauty and Cosmetology, 17(3), pp. 397–410. doi:10.20402/ajbc.2019.0308. 

Nguyen, J.K., Masub, N. and Jagdeo, J. (2020) ‘Bioactive ingredients in Korean cosmeceuticals: Trends and research evidence’, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 19(7), pp. 1555–1569. doi:10.1111/jocd.13344.

Zhang, S. et al. (2017) ‘Skin delivery of hydrophilic Biomacromolecules using marine sponge spicules’, Molecular Pharmaceutics, 14(9), pp. 3188–3200. doi:10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.7b00468. 

Zhang, C. et al. (2019) ‘Skin delivery of hyaluronic acid by the combined use of sponge spicules and flexible liposomes’, Biomaterials Science, 7(4), pp. 1299–1310. doi:10.1039/c8bm01555d. 

Zhang, C. et al. (2021) ‘Enhanced skin delivery of therapeutic peptides using spicule-based topical delivery systems’, Pharmaceutics, 13(12), p. 2119. doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics13122119.