Most people want to make ethical choices to protect the environment.
Choosing microplastic-free cosmetics is one simple way we can dramatically reduce plastic pollution in oceans and waterways that threatens marine life.
In this article, we'll look at the impact of microplastics, see what brands contain them, and learn solutions for choosing microplastic-free personal care products that are better for the planet.
Introduction to Microplastic Free Cosmetics
This article provides an overview of how choosing microplastic-free cosmetics can reduce environmental pollution and support marine conservation.
Understanding Microplastics in Cosmetics
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size that pollute waterways and oceans. Many beauty products contain microplastic ingredients such as polyethylene and polypropylene that get washed down bathroom and kitchen sinks and drains. These ingredients are commonly added to products like facial cleansers, shower gels, and toothpaste as exfoliants or to improve texture. However, they do not dissolve and instead make their way into sewage systems and eventually oceans.
Once in the marine environment, fish and other organisms mistake these plastic particles for food. The microplastics accumulate in their digestive systems, blocking the intestines and stomach, often resulting in death from starvation or malnutrition. These plastics also introduce toxins into the food chain.
Choosing microplastic-free alternatives for daily beauty routines can dramatically reduce this form of pollution and protect marine life. Brands are increasingly developing products without environmentally harmful plastics.
The Prevalence of Microplastics in Beauty Products
Recent studies have shown just how widespread plastic microbead usage is in the personal care industry. One study found as many as 43% of beauty products contained them. Compounding this issue is that a typical user of exfoliating products like face washes or toothpaste can send over 100,000 microbeads down the drain in a single use.
While some regions have begun banning microbeads, many products still contain tiny plastic particles that easily bypass filters and treatment plants. The scale of this issue means consumers must be informed and vigilant when selecting cosmetics and toiletries.
Opting for natural alternatives like products using crushed walnut shells, bamboo, or other biodegradable ingredients can prevent microplastics from being introduced. Checking labels and buying from eco-conscious brands is key.
The Environmental Toll of Microplastics
The effects of microplastics on marine environments have been increasingly documented. A recent study discovered microplastic particles in over 100 aquatic species across all oceans. Their small size means they are consumed by even tiny zooplankton and pass up the food chain to larger animals like whales and dolphins.
Beyond introducing toxins into animals, the plastics can cause blockages, internal wounds, and deterioration of liver functions. They also reduce animals’ abilities to absorb nutrients contributing to malnutrition. In turn, species loss from microplastic pollution damages fragile ocean ecosystems.
While more research is still needed, estimates show over 15 million tons of microplastics currently pollute marine environments. Cosmetics users can help curb these alarming levels by purchasing natural, biodegradable products free of plastic ingredients. In combination with water filtration techniques, this could significantly reduce the microplastics flowing into waterways.
What cosmetic brands contain microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that have become ubiquitous in our environment. Unfortunately, many personal care and cosmetic products contain microplastics, which then get washed down the drain and into waterways.
A 2021 study by the Plastic Soup Foundation analyzed over 7,000 cosmetic products from popular brands like L'Oréal, Garnier, Nivea, Gillette, Oral-B and Head & Shoulders. The findings were alarming:
- 87% of the products analyzed contained microplastics
- On average, each product contained 2 microplastic ingredients
- The most common microplastics were polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP)
Major cosmetic brands use microplastics as:
- Exfoliants - Microbeads in face washes and body scrubs
- Bulking agents - Thickeners and texturizers in lotions and creams
- Glitters - In makeup, lip products, eyeshadows
While these ingredients may improve product performance, they ultimately end up polluting waterways and harming marine life once washed down the drain.
The study concluded that major brands have further work to do in eliminating microplastics from their formulations. Consumers also play a role by being informed and choosing products free from microplastics. Every purchase decision counts in driving change towards more sustainable products.
How can you tell if a product that you use contain microplastics?
To avoid using cosmetics that contain microplastics, here are some tips:
Check the ingredients list
Look for ingredients like polyethylene, polypropylene, and polymethyl methacrylate. These are commonly used microplastics in cosmetics.
Look for "microplastic-free" labels
Many brands now label their products as "microplastic-free". This indicates the product does not contain intentionally added microplastics.
Research brands
See what sustainability commitments brands have made regarding microplastics. Many are pledging to phase out microplastics from their products.
Seek natural alternatives
Choose products with more natural ingredients over synthetic ingredients which are more likely to contain microplastics.
The key is to be an informed consumer and check where possible for microplastic ingredients. Every effort to avoid these in our cosmetics can collectively reduce microplastic pollution over time.
How do you prevent microplastics in makeup?
To avoid microplastics in cosmetics, check the ingredient list and avoid products containing the following:
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
- Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)
- Nylon (PA)
These ingredients are commonly used to add texture or glitter effects in cosmetics. However, they do not dissolve and end up being rinsed down the drain. Once in waterways, microplastics accumulate in marine life, working their way up the food chain.
Choosing products made with natural ingredients is an easy way to avoid microplastics. Brands focused on sustainability also tend to avoid ingredients like glitter and plastic microbeads.
When shopping, look for labels like:
- Biodegradable
- Compostable
- Reef-Safe
- Ocean-Safe
- Zero Plastic Inside
Simple skincare and makeup routines also minimize microplastic pollution. Using fewer products with multifunctional benefits streamlines your routine while limiting plastic waste from packaging.
Making small, informed choices to avoid microplastics in makeup and other personal care products can significantly reduce environmental impacts over time. Supporting sustainable brands also encourages the industry to develop more eco-friendly alternatives.
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Does Clinique have microplastics?
Clinique has taken steps to remove microplastics from their products. Specifically:
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In 2016, Clinique reformulated their products to remove plastic microbeads and replace them with natural, biodegradable ingredients like silica.
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They confirmed that as of 2016, 100% of their rinse-off products and 98% of all products are microplastic-free.
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For the few remaining products still containing microplastics, Clinique claims they are working on reformulations to replace them.
So in summary, the majority of Clinique's lineup no longer contains microplastics like plastic microbeads. They removed these ingredients starting in 2016. While a very small number of products still have microplastics, Clinique says they are finding natural alternatives for the remaining items as well.
The Shift Towards Microplastic Free Makeup
More consumers are seeking out makeup, skincare, and hair products made without microplastic ingredients. As awareness grows regarding the environmental impact of microplastics, many are looking for alternatives.
Spotting Microplastics on Ingredient Labels
Common microplastic ingredients to avoid include:
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
Checking the ingredient list on packaging is key. Opting for products made without these synthetic polymers can reduce plastic pollution.
The Role of Microplastic-Free Certifications
Credible seals from organizations like Zero Plastic Inside indicate products made without microplastics. These certifications verify that no plastic microbeads or microfibers were used. Seeing one of these seals makes identifying better choices straightforward.
Homemade Cosmetics: A Microplastic Free Alternative
Making homemade scrubs and cleansers with all-natural ingredients is a plastic-free option. Simple recipes using ingredients like sugar, salt, plant oils, and essential oils avoid microplastics. However, preservatives may still be needed for safety and shelf-life. Overall, DIY products empower consumers to control what goes on their skin.
Microplastic Free Solutions for Personal Care
Responsible companies are developing microplastic-free alternatives to traditional cosmetics and personal care products. By choosing to support these sustainable brands, consumers can help reduce the amount of microplastics entering waterways and impacting marine life.
Responsible Disposal of Cosmetics Containing Microplastics
When disposing of conventional cosmetics containing microplastics, it's important not to send the tiny plastic particles down the drain. Instead, place the products into the garbage so they can be properly disposed of without contributing to environmental pollution. Some tips:
- Scoop out the last bits of product from containers before recycling or throwing them away
- Avoid using cosmetic wipes, as these tend to get flushed down toilets
- Check if your community has special guidelines for disposing of beauty products, as some accept them in household hazardous waste programs
Embracing Reusable Microplastic Free Alternatives
Using reusable tools like washcloths and silicone pads instead of disposable wipes or plastic sponges is an easy way to prevent waste. Reusable options can often last for years, saving money while keeping microplastics out of waterways and landfills. When shopping, look for:
- Reusable cotton rounds and bamboo pads for removing makeup
- Silicone facial scrubbers and body buffing brushes instead of plastic exfoliating tools
- Washable silicone or rubber gloves rather than single-use plastic gloves
Advocating for Policies Against Microplastics in Cosmetics
Beyond individual actions, advocating for regulations that restrict microplastics in personal care products can drive widespread change. Concerned citizens can:
- Write to lawmakers in support of banning microbeads and other microplastics in cosmetics
- Publicly comment on environmental proposals to limit plastic pollution from these items
- Join nonprofits lobbying for new standards in the cosmetics industry
Getting involved in the public discourse around environmental policy makes your voice heard on issues impacting waterways, marine life, and human health.
Advancing the Microplastic Free Movement
Spreading awareness of this issue inspires collective action for the environment.
Educational Outreach on Microplastic Pollution
Educating others about microplastic pollution and its impacts can motivate positive change. Consider sharing informative social media posts or hosting community workshops to spread awareness. Focus on actionable steps people can take, like avoiding products with microplastics or supporting brands that use natural ingredients. Small ripples can create bigger waves.
Leading the Charge with Microplastic Free Practices
Lead by example in your own life. Switch to natural cosmetics and cleaning products to reduce microplastic consumption. Use reusable grocery bags and food containers to cut down on plastic waste. When possible, choose packaging made from recyclable materials. Not only are these changes better for the environment, but they demonstrate to others that a microplastic-free lifestyle is achievable.
Championing Microplastic Free Brands
Reinforce and encourage businesses pursuing plastic-free missions by purchasing their products and promoting their efforts on social media. Seek out brands that use natural, biodegradable ingredients and minimal, eco-friendly packaging. With both your wallet and voice, you can champion these changemakers while spreading awareness of this important cause.
Conclusion: The Collective Impact of Choosing Microplastic Free Cosmetics
Choosing microplastic-free cosmetics benefits marine life conservation while reducing plastic pollution. Combined with lifestyle changes and advocacy, informed consumer choice drives impactful change.
The choice to use microplastic-free cosmetics supports reducing environmental pollution in our oceans and waterways. As microplastics from beauty products and other sources accumulate, they threaten marine ecosystems. By selecting alternative products, consumers enable companies to shift away from ingredients that break down into microplastics.
Consumer purchasing power makes a collective difference. As demand for sustainable products grows, more companies will respond by developing natural, biodegradable formulas. Widespread adoption of microplastic-free cosmetics, combined with proper disposal and lifestyle changes to reduce plastic waste, can significantly lower the volume of microplastics released. Through individual and collective action, we make progress toward a cleaner, healthier environment.
The choice also empowers consumers to stand up for marine conservation. Public awareness and concern about microplastic pollution has increased pressure on governments and corporations to address the issue. By supporting microplastic-free companies with purchasing dollars, consumers fuel continued innovation and send a message that protecting oceans and sea life matters.
Small, individual choices add up. The collective impact of choosing microplastic-free cosmetics, alongside other lifestyle changes, drives meaningful progress toward reducing plastic waste and safeguarding our oceans.
