What counts as microplastic in cosmetics
Cosmetics use plastics in two ways. Solid particles such as microbeads, glitter and polymer powders give scrub, shimmer, texture or a soft-focus finish. Film-forming and liquid polymers help products spread, set and resist water. Regulators mostly target the solid particles, since those persist in the environment as microplastics.
Rules in the US and EU
United States
Strong The Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015 banned plastic microbeads in rinse-off cosmetics, including toothpaste, from 2017–2018. It does not cover leave-on products, makeup or glitter. Apart from this law, US federal rules do not directly regulate microplastics in products.
European Union
Strong EU Regulation 2023/2055, in force since 17 October 2023, restricts synthetic polymer microparticles that are sold on their own or intentionally added to products. Loose plastic glitter and microbeads were the first to go. Other uses have transition periods:
| Product group | EU restriction applies from |
|---|---|
| Loose plastic glitter, microbeads in scrubs | 17 October 2023 |
| Rinse-off cosmetics (other uses) | 17 October 2027 |
| Leave-on cosmetics | 17 October 2029 |
| Makeup, lip and nail products | 17 October 2035 |
Glitter that is part of a finished item, such as a glitter-printed T-shirt, is outside the restriction. Glitter made of natural, mineral, soluble or biodegradable material is allowed.
Ingredient names to look for
These names on an ingredient list (INCI) indicate synthetic polymers, some of which may be present as solid particles:
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
- Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)
- Nylon-6, Nylon-12
- Acrylates copolymer, acrylates crosspolymer
- Polyurethane (for example polyurethane-2, -33)
- Polystyrene
- Polyquaternium (various numbers)
- Ethylene/acrylate copolymer, styrene/acrylates copolymer
Not every ingredient on this list is a solid microplastic, and the amounts vary. Treat it as a guide for comparing products, not a reason to throw everything out. Free apps that scan ingredient lists can flag these for you.
Other bathroom sources
- Wet wipes made with polyester or polypropylene fibers. Choose plastic-free wipes or a washable cloth.
- Plastic toothbrushes wear down. Replace them on schedule, or choose bamboo handles (bristles are usually still nylon).
- Sheet masks and some cotton pads include synthetic fibers.
- Dental floss is often nylon or PTFE. Silk or plant-fiber floss is available.
Practical priorities
- Start with products used on or near the mouth: lip products, toothpaste and floss.
- Skip loose plastic glitter, especially for children.
- Choose rinse-off products that use natural exfoliants such as sugar, salt, jojoba beads, oats or ground seeds.
- Use plastic-free wipes or reusable cloths.
Frequently asked questions
Are microbeads still in products?
Plastic microbeads in rinse-off cosmetics and toothpaste are banned in the US, UK, Canada and the EU, among others. Leave-on products such as some foundations, sunscreens and lipsticks can still contain solid polymer particles in many countries.
Is biodegradable glitter really plastic-free?
Some is. Glitter made from mineral, natural or truly biodegradable materials is allowed under EU rules. Some products labeled bio-glitter still have a thin plastic coating, so look for certification to a biodegradation standard.
Do wet wipes contain plastic?
Many do. A large share of wet wipes are made with polyester or polypropylene fibers. Wipes labeled plastic-free or made of 100% plant-based fibers such as viscose or cotton avoid this.