Frequently Asked Questions

1. SQT® Spongilla Spicules are a kind of siliceous bio microneedle that are extracted from the freshwater sponge. SQT use the best and highest quality of spicule from the Spongilla Lacustris.

Not all types of spicules are the same.

2. It can be seen as powder by our eyes, and as a sharp rod crystal or blunt bone needle under the microscope. Spongilla spicules are generally 200-250um in length and around 10um in diameter.

3. SQT® Spongilla Spicules are the core product of Sunshine Bio-Tech. Hunan Sunshine Bio-Tech Co Ltd. We are the pioneers of hydrolysed sponge purification and extraction, with 8 years of dedicated R&D, we deeply polish each bio microneedle to provide the highest quality Spongilla spicules for the cosmetic industry.

The concept of “liquid microneedles” emerged after that of biological microneedles.
Back in 2021, when SQT began offering product samples, we were the first to introduce the concept of biological microneedles after 7 years of R&D. While we did occasionally use the “liquid microneedle” label on certain products, it has never been our main terminology, as“biological microneedles” more accurately and effectively conveys the core of our technology.

At SQT we focus on perfecting our sponge microneedle technology and have refined it to an exceptional level, maintaining our number 1 in the world status. That’s why our communication emphasises biological microneedles, staying true to our core strengths rather than following market hype.

We have 21 invention patents and are global leaders in spicule implantation.

Spongilla Lacustris is a freshwater sponge common in Europe. Sponge spicules are
structural components functioning as a “skeleton” and a defence system against
predators and consisting of calcium carbonate, silica, and Chitin.

Spongilla Lacustris spicule extract is a multifunctional skincare ingredient that
comprises all the benefits of its natural components. Fine particles are used as an abrasive for mechanical exfoliation or dermabrasion, which polishes and eliminates
old, pigmented, and dead cells from the skin surface, exposing a fresher, clearer, and radiant appearance.

Chitin is a long-chain polysaccharide consisting of glucose units, the second most
abundant natural polymer after cellulose, with similar characteristics. Spongilla
Lacustris spicule contains α-chitin. It provides flexibility and strength to spicules and insect exoskeletons. It is not soluble in water, but its derivative chitosan, is water-soluble and widely used in skin care applications.

Chitin is a perfect texturising and bulking agent that provides a rich and soft feel. It has similar properties to keratin and is used in hair care formulations for brittle or damaged hair. In addition, thanks to the natural antibacterial action against Streptococcus and other bacteria, Chitin is an ideal ingredient for preparations against acne and other skin infections. In addition, it protects skin from UV exposure, moisturises and improves water-retention ability (especially in combination with glucans), and binds other active ingredients, assisting in the delivery and enhancing the formula’s stability.

Spongilla Lacustris spicule extract is a natural, sage, and renewable ingredient to
preserve the skin’s beauty and radiant glow.

Sponges are living creatures and are important to the ecosystem and oceans. Spongilla spicules have been famous for centuries and have been known for their use in skincare dating back to the 18th century in Europe.

Sponge Spicules come from the freshwater sponge, SQT use 3 main locations in Ukraine, Russia and China.

Spicules sourced are completely natural, vegan, 100% ecological, and at the same time unique in preparation using nano-biological spicules.

Spicules are a hydrolyte of the purest organism in the world. So far, they have grown more than 10,000 types. Sponge Spicules are a sustainable development, with no damage to the economy Hunan Sunshine Biotech own ISO series certification.(ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001), which are available upon request.

We also strictly abide by laws and government standards when researching and producing sponge raw materials.

Broken and unpurified spicules can be more harmful than good to the skin for several reasons:

In just 5 Minutes, 3 -7 million natural siliceous microneedles are directly introduced into the basal layer, epidermis and dermis layer of the skin through hand massage to promote skin metabolism and stimulate collagen regeneration. There is no bleeding, no anaesthesia, and no skin breakage. The treatment shortens the skin cycle from 28 days to 7 days by activating the basal skin cells and achieves natural, safe, and effective physical rejuvenation.

Spongilla spicules are an effective modality of skin resurfacing and provide a natural alternative approach to microdermabrasion and dermabrasion, and chemical peels (glycolic acid, Jessner’s, phenol and trichloroacetic acid peels), CO laser resurfacing and Erbium laser peels to correct visual facial defects such as hyperpigmentation of various types, fine wrinkles, Sun damage, Superficial Scars, comedones, enlarged pores, and facial rejuvenation.

Upon massaging Spongilla spicules into the skin, the spicules mechanically separate the epidermal layers and reduce keratinocyte cohesion, resulting in increased stratum corneum sloughing and sebum plug, and loose keratinocyte removal.

No, different protocols give different levels of downtime. Our enhanced formulas mean minimal irritation and downtime with reduced redness and sensitivity. However, flaking or peeling can be expected depending on the aesthetician’s level of penetration and the client’s current skin condition. Not everyone will peel from the treatment, and this does not mean it is not working, rather that the area is regenerating at a faster rate.

Spongilla spicules will not be absorbed, but they can last in the skin for up to 48~72
hours. After 48 -72 hours, they will be discharged with the stratum corneum that has fallen off.

A course of 4 sessions is recommended every 2 weeks for long term and effective results on the face.
For body parts and dependant on the conditon, a course of 6 – 8 sessions may be required.
As we still age and are prone to environmental aggressors daily, Maintenance sessions are required every 8-12 weeks for long term results and educational advice on homecare is vital

We do not advise SQT treatments to be combined with any other treatments apart from LED Photorejuvenation

For anyone undergoing chemotherapy or for women who are breastfeeding: Yes, But may be very sensitive to everything, so it is best to consult a doctor before receiving treatment.

Unfortunately, this treatment is not suitable for women who are pregnant.

This product does not cause skin allergies, instead, it improves it and makes the skin healthy.  It is not recommended for people

Compared with a traditional metal microneedle, the procedure is much easier and the risk of infection is greatly reduced.

Compared with chemical peeling and herbal peeling, SQT® spongilla spicules therapy works in a totally different way.

SQT is suitable for all skin types and colours, because the ingredients are all natural and do not contain acids, debris, fragrance, alcohol, broken or unpurified spicules or ingredients that damage the skin. Herbal, seaweed, and algae peels work superficially on the top layers of the skin. SQT bio microneedles work
inside the skin; therefore is a totally different treatment.

Algae powder or Spirulina powder is an unpurified powder, which contains a lot of
plankton, dead branches or fallen leaves, and other impurities. It is a grey, grey-green, or brown powder with a fishy smell. There are a lot of broken needles, mostly used for Exfoliating.

The ingredients cannot stimulate the basal layer and cannot be compounded into other products as a single ingredient.

With seriously exceeded microbes and heavy metals, algae peel patients are easily
prone to skin allergies, inflammation, infections, and other damage.

SQT Bio Microneedling needles are a far superior treatment with 99% pure needles
working on the INSIDE layer of skin to activate the basal skin cell. The SQT principle is mostly through needles. Each gram of sponge spicules contains 3 million fine needles that penetrate the skin by pressing to open skin channels, absorb ingredients, and remove excess oil / promote skin microcirculation.

SQT bio Microneedling is set to overtake most machine-based laser treatments in the next 5 years, as the skin is left in a much healthier position and heals much faster than traditional lasers and chemical peels.
SQT can effectively treat an array of skin problems, including and not limited to: Acne, Acne scars, Pigmentation, melasma, Pimples, Whelk, Blackheads, Whiteheads, Large pores, Papules, Anti-Ageing, Stretch Marks, wrinkle regeneration, dehydration, rosacea, damaged skin barriers, Fine Lines, lifting and firming, Blemishes, hydration and oil balancing.

The SQT treatment is totally different from the peeling of algae.

Algae powder or Spirulina powder is an unpurified powder, which contains a lot of plankton, dead branches or fallen leaves, and other impurities. It is a gray, gray-green, or brown powder with a fishy smell. There are a lot of broken needles, mostly used for Exfoliating.  The ingredients cannot stimulate the basal layer and cannot be compounded into other products as a single ingredient.

With seriously exceeded microbes and heavy metals, algae peel patients are easily prone to skin allergies, inflammation, infections, and other damages.  SQT Bio Microneedling needles are a far more superior treatment with 99% pure needles working on the INSIDE layer of skin to activate the basal skin cell.  The SQT principle is mostly through needles.  Each gram of sponge spicules contains 3-5 million fine needles that penetrate the skin by pressing to open skin channels, absorb ingredients, and remove excess oil / promote skin microcirculation.