Products Description Spongilla Lacustris is a freshwater sponge common in Europe. Sponge spicules are structural components functioning as a “skeleton” and defense system against predators and consisting of calcium carbonate, silica, and Chitin. Spongilla Lacustris spicule extract is a multifunctional skincare ingredient that comprises all 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 texturizing 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 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, moisturizes and improves water-retention ability (especially in combination with glucans), and binds another active ingredient 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. BASIC ANALYSIS Items Standards Results Physical Analysis Appearance Fine Powder Conforms Color White Conforms Odor Characteristic Conforms Mesh Size 100% through 80 mesh size Conforms General Analysis Identification Identical to R.S. sample Conforms Specification 99% Conforms Extract Solvents Water and Ethanol Conforms Loss on Drying (g/100g) ≤5.0 3.11% Ash(g/100g) ≤5.0 2.36% Chemical Analysis Pesticides Residue (mg/kg) <0.05 Conforms Residual Solvent <0.05 Conforms Residual Radiation Negative Conforms Lead(Pb) (mg/kg) <3.0 Conforms Arsenic(As) (mg/kg) <2.0 Conforms Cadmium(Cd) (mg/kg) <1.0 Conforms Mercury(Hg) (mg/kg) <0.1 Conforms Microbiological Analysis Total Plate Count(cfu/g) ≤1,000 Conforms Molds and Yeast (cfu/g) ≤100 Conforms Coliforms (cfu/g) Negative Conforms Salmonella(/25g) Negative Conforms Function & Application Spongilla spicules are an effective modality of skin resurfacing.  They provide a natural alternative approach to microdermabrasion and dermabrasion, 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 etiology, 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, thereby increasing stratum corneum sloughing and sebum plug and loose keratinocyte removal. Benefit: Antioxidant effect: Spongilla lacustris extract is rich in antioxidants, which helps neutralize free radicals, slow down the skin aging process, and protect the skin from environmental damage. Moisturizing: Its ingredients help maintain skin moisture, enhance skin barrier function, and keep skin soft and smooth. Anti-inflammatory and healing: Spongilla lacustris extract may have anti-inflammatory and healing effects, helping to reduce skin inflammation and irritation and promote wound healing. Application: Skin care products: Spongilla lacustris extract is often used in skin care products, such as creams, lotions, essences, etc., to provide moisturizing, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Shampoo and hair care products: Its moisturizing and nourishing effects also make it a common ingredient in shampoo and hair care products, helping to improve dry and frizzy hair. Pharmaceuticals: Spongilla lacustris extract may also be used in pharmaceuticals to treat skin inflammation, eczema and other skin problems.