Skin 1004 calls this their "Boosting Shot" — a spicule-delivered formula where the active ingredients are carried into skin via Hydrolyzed Sponge micro-spicules (avg. 13μm, smaller than a pore) that create temporary micro-channels in the stratum corneum as you massage.

Clinical testing shows 132.8% higher ingredient absorption compared to the same formula without spicules. The formula itself stacks three brightening actives at clinically meaningful concentrations: 10% niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid (TXA), and Ascorbyl Glucoside (stable vitamin C). 

• Hydrolyzed Sponge Spicules — 132.8% Higher Absorption — sea sponge-derived silica micro-spicules averaging 13μm (smaller than the ~180μm average pore) are suspended in the gel formula; when massaged across the face, they create micro-scale channels through the outermost skin layer (stratum corneum), temporarily increasing permeability; Skin 1004's clinical data shows 132.8% higher absorption vs. a spicule-free control formula in a 2025 study (20 adult women, Korea Dermatology Research Institute); a mild tingling sensation is normal during massage — Nika confirms it's tolerable; if sensitive, start 2–3x per week and increase to daily as skin adapts
• Niacinamide 10% — Clinical-Strength Pore + Brightening — niacinamide at the 3rd position in the formula (behind water and butylene glycol) signals a genuinely high 10% concentration; at this level, niacinamide inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes (reducing the appearance of dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), temporarily minimizes pore appearance, reduces sebum production, and reinforces barrier ceramide synthesis; 10% is the highest clinically validated concentration before diminishing returns begin
• Tranexamic Acid (TXA) — PIH and Uneven Tone — TXA inhibits the plasminogen activator-to-plasmin pathway that triggers UV-induced melanin production; it works at a different point in the pigmentation cascade than niacinamide (which works downstream at melanosome transfer), meaning TXA and niacinamide target pigmentation from two separate angles simultaneously; TXA is particularly effective for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) — the red and brown marks left after acne — which makes it the ingredient behind the results Nika saw on acne scars
• Ascorbyl Glucoside (Stable Vitamin C) + Polyglutamic Acid + Sodium DNA (PDRN) — Ascorbyl Glucoside is a glucose-bonded form of vitamin C that is stable in water-based formulas (unlike L-ascorbic acid which oxidizes quickly); it converts to active ascorbic acid via skin's glucosidase enzymes, adding a third brightening pathway alongside niacinamide and TXA; Polyglutamic Acid is a fermentation-derived humectant that holds 4x more moisture than hyaluronic acid and forms a breathable film that extends hydration; Sodium DNA (PDRN) supports the adenosine A2A receptor repair pathway, adding a skin renewal signal to the formula
• Madagascar Centella Asiatica Extract + Madecassoside — Soothing the Post-Spicule Skin — Skin 1004 sources their centella from Madagascar, where the climate produces higher centelloside concentrations than farmed alternatives; Centella Asiatica Extract provides whole-extract soothing and barrier support; Madecassoside is the isolated centelloside with the strongest anti-inflammatory and collagen-synthesis-supporting activity; both work during and after the massage phase to calm any spicule-induced sensitization and support barrier recovery; Panthenol and Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E) complete the soothing and antioxidant layer

After cleansing, dispense a small amount and gently massage over the face. A mild tingling is normal as the spicules work. If new to spicule formulas, use 2–3x per week initially then increase to daily as skin adapts. Follow with toner or moisturizer. Fragrance-free. 30ml.

Korean skincare at Olive Kollection since 2018 — free shipping on orders over $40.