Disintegration behavior of model granules, comprising silica microspheres and poly(vinylalcohol), was characterized by two methods, i.e. a shear method with a granular bed and a compression test of a single granule. A steep increase in the shear resistance was found to be attributed to the initiation of the catastrophic collapse in a granular bed. From the stress-strain curve for a single granule compression test, the critical points of initiation and completion of granule crushing were determined. By analyzing the correlation between the results from the two methods, it was possible to classify the types of disintegration and, hence, to obtain a guideline for the preparation of appropriate granules for cosmetic uses.