How Spicules Work in the Dermathod O2 Tox Peel: Esthetician Guide to Micro-Exfoliation & Oxygen Activation

How Spicules Work in the Dermathod O2 Tox Peel: Esthetician Guide to Micro-Exfoliation & Oxygen Activation

The Dermathod O2 Tox Peel is a next-generation resurfacing treatment that uses Korean hydrolyzed sponge spicules and an oxygen delivery complex to renew dull, congested, or uneven skin. Unlike chemical peels, which dissolve bonds between skin cells, spicules work through a completely different mechanism—one that stimulates renewal, increases circulation, enhances absorption, and improves texture without harsh acids. This guide explains exactly how spicules function, why clients feel them for up to 72 hours, and what makes Dermathod’s formula unique.

Related: Dermathod Korean Skincare: Complete Esthetician Guide

What Are Spicules?

Spicules are ultra-fine, needle-shaped particles derived from a hydrolyzed freshwater sponge. When applied to the skin, these microscopic structures create gentle, controlled micro-channels that stimulate renewal and improve absorption of active ingredients.

Key Characteristics of Spicules:

  • Microscopic, needle-like particles
  • Biodegradable and naturally derived
  • Stimulate cell turnover without acids
  • Create temporary micro-injury to trigger repair
  • Increase circulation and oxygen uptake in the skin

How Spicules Work Inside the Dermathod O2 Tox Peel

When the peel is massaged onto the skin, the spicules embed into the surface layers, creating thousands of micro-pathways. This process triggers the skin to begin its natural repair cycle, resulting in smoother texture, improved clarity, and increased absorption of treatment ingredients.

1. Micro-Exfoliation Without Acid

Instead of dissolving skin cells like AHAs or BHAs, spicules provide a mechanical exfoliation at a microscopic level. This helps:

  • lift away dead skin
  • refine rough texture
  • improve radiance
  • reduce the look of pores

2. Increased Circulation

Because the skin senses spicules as a stimulus, circulation increases in the treated area. This leads to:

  • a brighter, healthier complexion
  • improved oxygen delivery
  • faster renewal responses

3. Enhanced Absorption of Actives

The micro-channels created by spicules allow peptides, niacinamide, Centella, hyaluronic acid, and oxygen carriers in the O2 Tox formula to penetrate more effectively. This is what separates the peel from traditional exfoliation—it's both resurfacing and infusion.

4. 72-Hour Micro-Stimulation

Dermathod’s formula contains 30,000 ppm spicules, which remain active for up to 72 hours. During this window, clients feel a tingling or “prickly” sensation when touching their face, which is completely normal and indicates ongoing renewal.

Why the O2 Tox Peel Bubbles on the Skin

The peel contains oxygen delivery agents that activate on contact with the skin, creating a gentle bubbling effect. This helps:

  • increase oxygen availability
  • revitalize dull or congested complexions
  • enhance skin clarity
  • boost circulation

Spicules + oxygen delivery create a synergistic treatment: renewal + revitalization.

Peptides That Work With Spicules

The O2 Tox Peel contains a powerful peptide complex that supports regeneration during the spicule activity period. These include:

  • Copper tripeptide-1 — firming, hydrating, anti-aging
  • Acetyl hexapeptide-8 — lifting and firming
  • Palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 — reduces fine lines, improves elasticity
  • Myrisotyl pentapeptide-17 — hydration and keratin support
  • Rh-oligopeptide-1 (EGF) — regeneration, texture refinement
  • Rh-polypeptide-11 — wrinkle reduction and structural support

When combined with spicules, these peptides reach deeper layers than they would in a standard topical serum.

Why Spicules Feel “Prickly” For Up to 72 Hours

The tingling or prickling sensation clients feel during and after treatment is a hallmark of spicule activation. This means:

  • the spicules are still working
  • the skin is stimulating renewal pathways
  • active exfoliation is happening microscopically

This is not irritation—it's controlled stimulation.

Post-Treatment Care After Spicule Resurfacing

Because spicules create micro-injury, the skin must be treated gently afterward. Recommended products include:

Avoid exfoliants, retinoids, and microchanneling treatments like EZ-Jet for at least 14 days.

Why Spicule Peels Are Different From Acid Peels

  • No chemical burn or downtime
  • No peeling sheets of skin
  • Safe for sensitive or reactive skin types
  • Great for dullness, texture, and pore refinement
  • Can be used regularly with proper spacing

Instead of stripping, spicules stimulate the skin to repair itself.

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