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Did you know that a single tube of facial scrub can contain up to 298.66 ± 60 microplastic beads per gram?1 That means for every gram of scrub, you could be rubbing anywhere from 238 to 358 tiny plastic particles onto your skin—only to rinse them straight down the drain. I was shocked when I first learned this!
A recent study published in Applied Water Science analyzed six commercially available scrubs and found how much plastic we’re unknowingly washing down the drain. These tiny plastic particles easily slip through water treatment systems and end up in rivers, oceans, and food.
Microplastics are hiding in more beauty products than you might think—found in everything from exfoliating scrubs to toothpaste and even makeup. In this guide, we’re uncovering the not-so-pretty truth about microplastics in cosmetics—their impact on the environment and how we can replace them with cleaner, planet-friendly alternatives.
What Are Microplastics in Cosmetics?
Microplastics in cosmetics are tiny plastic particles intentionally added to beauty and personal care products. They’re often included to create a smoother texture, help with exfoliation, or improve product performance. The problem? Once rinsed off, these plastic bits don’t just disappear—they wash down the drain and enter waterways, where they’re nearly impossible to remove.
Different Forms of Microplastics in Beauty Products
Microplastics in cosmetics come in more forms than just the well-known microbeads. Here’s where they might be hiding:
- Microbeads – These tiny, round plastic particles were once common in exfoliating scrubs and toothpaste. While many countries have banned them, they can still appear in some products.
- Glitter – That shimmering highlight or sparkly eyeshadow? If it’s made with plastic-based glitter, it’s another source of microplastic pollution. These flecks don’t break down naturally and can end up in marine ecosystems.
- Powders and Fillers – Some foundations, setting powders, and skincare products use finely milled plastic particles to improve texture and application. These microplastics are often invisible to the eye but still contribute to pollution.
How to Spot Microplastics on Ingredient Lists
If you’ve ever looked at a beauty product’s ingredient list and felt like you were reading a science experiment, you’re not alone. Many microplastics go by names that don’t immediately scream “plastic,” but that’s precisely what they are. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common offenders:
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene is one of the most widely used plastics, often added to cosmetics for its smooth texture. It’s commonly found in exfoliating scrubs, body washes, and even some lipsticks, where it helps products glide on more smoothly. Unfortunately, these tiny plastic particles don’t dissolve in water, meaning they end up in the environment long after you’ve rinsed them away.
Polypropylene (PP)
Another form of plastic, polypropylene, is used in cosmetics as a thickening agent or to help products maintain their shape. It’s often found in mascaras, eyeliners, and some powders. Like polyethylene, it’s lightweight and resistant to breaking down, making it a long-term pollutant in marine ecosystems.
Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)
PMMA, sometimes called acrylic plastic, is commonly used in cosmetics to give products a smooth, lightweight feel. It appears in foundations, primers, and some nail polishes, where it enhances texture and helps products spread evenly. While it might make your makeup feel silky, PMMA is still a type of plastic that doesn’t biodegrade.
Nylon-12 and Nylon-6
These synthetic polymers are used in cosmetics to give products a smooth, velvety feel. They’re commonly found in face powders, primers, and some skincare products, which help absorb oil and enhance application. Unfortunately, just like fabric-based nylon, these microscopic particles linger in the environment and can be ingested by marine life.
Acrylates Copolymer
Acrylates copolymer is a blend of different plastic molecules that form a film on the skin or hair. It’s often added to waterproof mascaras, eyeliners, and sunscreens to help products stick better. While it sounds harmless, once washed away, it’s still a microplastic that contributes to pollution.
If an ingredient name looks like it belongs in a chemistry lab, it’s worth a second glance. Spotting these terms on a label can help you avoid hidden plastics in your beauty routine. Once washed away, these plastics don’t just vanish—they linger in water, soil, and even the air. The upside? More brands are swapping them for biodegradable alternatives, and learning to read ingredient lists is a powerful step toward a plastic-free beauty routine.
Size and Physical Characteristics of Cosmetic Microplastics
Cosmetic microplastics come in various sizes, from small enough to see to so tiny they’re entirely invisible to the naked eye. Most are smaller than five millimeters—about the size of a sesame seed—but many are micrometer or nanometer-sized, making them even harder to detect.
These microscopic plastics are especially concerning because they’re too small for standard water filtration systems to catch. Whether smooth and round (like microbeads), irregularly shaped (like broken-down plastic bits), or glitter-like, they all have one thing in common: they don’t go away once they enter the environment.
The Hidden Dangers of Microplastics
Microplastics might be tiny, but their impact is anything but small. These barely visible particles have far-reaching consequences that affect ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.
Environmental Impact on Marine Ecosystems
Once microplastics enter our waterways, they become a persistent pollutant. Marine animals, from the smallest plankton to the largest whales, can ingest these particles, mistaking them for food.
This ingestion can lead to physical harm, such as blockages in the digestive system, and can also expose these creatures to toxic substances that cling to the plastic’s surface. Over time, this pollution can disrupt entire marine ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and the health of our oceans.
Bioaccumulation in the Food Chain
The problem doesn’t stop with marine life. When small organisms consume microplastics, these particles can accumulate as larger predators eat multiple contaminated prey. This process, known as bioaccumulation, means that microplastics can work up the food chain, potentially ending up on our dinner plates. Studies have found microplastics in various seafood products, raising concerns about human exposure through diet.
A study in Environmental Science & Technology revealed that microplastics can build up in fish tissues at levels up to 10 times higher than in the surrounding water.2 This means that the microplastic concentration keeps increasing when larger fish or seafood munch on these smaller, contaminated fish.
Are you curious about how to reduce how much microplastics you are eating? Read this article.
Health Concerns for Human Consumption and Absorption
Emerging research indicates that microplastics are not just an environmental issue but also a human health concern. These particles have been detected in human tissues, including the lungs and placenta.
While the full extent of their impact is still under investigation, evidence suggests that microplastics can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and even cellular damage. The potential for these particles to carry harmful chemicals into our bodies adds another layer of risk.
Long-Term Effects on Wildlife and Biodiversity
Microplastics don’t just disappear—they linger in the environment, constantly exposing wildlife to harmful pollutants. Animals that ingest or come into contact with microplastics face serious health problems, such as reduced fertility, stunted growth, and increased mortality rates. This affects fish, birds, and mammals, impairing their ability to survive and reproduce.
One study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health looked at how microplastics show up in various species, from sea creatures to land animals. Researchers use advanced methods to detect and measure these pollutants, revealing just how widespread the problem is. The long-term effect? We’re putting sensitive species at risk, potentially pushing them toward extinction, which in turn threatens the balance of entire ecosystems.3
Common Cosmetic Products Containing Microplastics
Microplastics are hiding in more of your beauty products than you might realize. These tiny particles are often found in everything from exfoliating scrubs to your go-to makeup. Here’s where you’re most likely to find them:
Exfoliating Scrubs and Cleansers
If you’ve ever used a facial scrub or body exfoliant, there’s a good chance it contains microplastics. Polyethylene beads, a common culprit, are used in many scrubs to create that smooth, scrubby texture. While they’re great for sloughing off dead skin cells, they’re not so great for the planet (or our oceans). Even if a product says it’s “eco-friendly,” always check the label, as these microbeads may still be in some formulas.
Glittery Makeup Products and Nail Polishes
Glitter isn’t just for festive occasions—it’s found in tons of makeup products, from eyeshadows to highlighters and even nail polish. That sparkle you love? It often comes from tiny plastic particles that can easily wash down the drain and enter the environment. The same goes for those sparkly holiday-themed lip glosses and festive body lotions—fun but far from friendly to the planet.
Toothpastes and Oral Care Items
You might be surprised to learn that some toothpaste and oral care products still contain microplastics. Polyethylene is often added to toothpaste as a filler or polishing agent. The same goes for mouthwashes, which may include tiny plastic beads meant to aid in cleaning and scrubbing. While not all countries have banned these microplastics, even in places where they haven’t, the plastic beads don’t just disappear after you rinse—they end up down the drain, continuing their environmental impact.
Leave-on Products like Sunscreens and Moisturizers
Leave-on products like sunscreens, moisturizers, and even some hair products can also contain microplastics. These products are designed to stay on your skin, which means those microplastics stick around long after you apply them. Sunscreens, for example, often contain acrylate copolymer or other plastic-based ingredients that help the product adhere to your skin but also contribute to plastic pollution when washed off.
While these products may be common staples in many beauty routines, knowing what’s in them is crucial. Choosing plastic-free or biodegradable alternatives can help make your beauty routine more eco-friendly and prevent these tiny plastics from harming our environment.
Regulations and Industry Response
As the impact of microplastics in cosmetics becomes more apparent, governments and the beauty industry are taking steps to tackle the problem. While the change isn’t happening overnight, progress is being made.
Current Global Legislation on Microplastics in Cosmetics
Some countries are starting to regulate microplastics in personal care products, though the legislation varies widely. The Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015 banned synthetic plastic microbeads in rinse-off cosmetics like facial scrubs and body washes in the United States. However, the law doesn’t cover leave-on products (like lotions or sunscreens), which still means microplastics can be present in those.4
In Europe, the European Commission took a big step forward in 2023 by adopting a REACH restriction on microplastics. This regulation, which kicked in October 2023, aims to curb the use of synthetic polymer microparticles (aka microplastics) intentionally added to products. The goal is simple but significant: reduce the release of microplastics into the environment. This restriction covers many products, including cosmetics, detergents, waxes, polishes, air fresheners, and fertilizers.5 It’s a significant win for the planet and shows that policy can help steer the beauty industry in the right direction.
Certification Programs and Eco-Labels
Spotting truly sustainable products can feel like a guessing game, but certification programs and eco-labels are making it easier. Take the Microplastic-Free Certification by Microplasticfree.org—it guarantees that a product is free from those tiny plastic particles, benefiting both the planet and your health.
Similarly, Cosmacon’s Microplastic-Free Certification helps consumers identify beauty products that skip microplastics altogether. These labels cut through the confusion, so you don’t have to play detective with ingredient lists to find cleaner options.
Natural and Sustainable Alternatives
Suppose you’re ready to ditch the microplastics in your beauty routine. In that case, plenty of natural and sustainable alternatives can help you achieve the same results—without the environmental baggage. Let’s explore some eco-friendly options that are as gentle on your skin as they are on the planet.
Plant-Based Exfoliants and Natural Alternatives
Exfoliating doesn’t have to mean scrubbing your skin with tiny plastic beads. So many amazing plant-based exfoliants do the job just as well—if not better—while being far more eco-friendly. Think ground almonds, oats, or rice powder, which gently slough off dead skin cells without leaving behind any harmful plastic residue. Other great natural exfoliants include coffee grounds, sugar, and sea salt. Check out these natural DIY recipes for more ideas.
These ingredients are biodegradable, meaning they break down naturally in the environment instead of sticking around for hundreds of years like their plastic counterparts. You’ll still get that fresh, smooth skin minus the microplastic impact!
Biodegradable Glitter Options
Who doesn’t love a little sparkle? Traditional glitter—often made from plastic-based materials—is a significant environmental problem. There are now plenty of biodegradable glitter options that deliver all the glimmer with none of the guilt. Made from plant-based materials like Eucalyptus cellulose or biodegradable polymers, these eco-glitters break down naturally when they hit the environment, leaving no harmful microplastics whether adding shimmer to your makeup or decking out your nails; biodegradable glitter is a fabulous, earth-friendly option that still lets you shine.
Eco-Friendly Beauty Brands Leading the Change
The beauty industry is slowly but surely moving in the right direction. Brands like UpCircle, 100%Pure, and Nakin are committed to making a difference in what goes on our skin and in the environment. These companies are committed to using natural, eco-friendly ingredients and packaging that minimize waste and are not afraid to prioritize sustainability over quick profits.
Making Informed Choices the Easy Way
Let’s be honest—navigating ingredient lists filled with unpronounceable chemicals isn’t exactly a fun way to spend your time. Luckily, there are apps designed to do the detective work for you, making it easier to spot microplastics and other unwanted ingredients when shopping in a hurry.
Beat the Microbead
Developed by the Plastic Soup Foundation, Beat the Microbead is one of the most well-known tools for identifying microplastics in cosmetics. Simply scan a product’s barcode, and the app will instantly flag any ingredients linked to microplastic pollution. It categorizes ingredients into red (definitely microplastic), orange (suspected microplastic), and green (safe to use)—making it easy to see at a glance whether a product passes the test. The app also keeps an updated list of brands committed to going microplastic-free so you can shop confidently.
EWG (Environmental Working Group) Skin Deep Database
If you’re looking for a deeper dive into cosmetic safety, the EWG Skin Deep Database is a goldmine of information. It ranks beauty and personal care products on a scale from 1 (low hazard) to 10 (high hazard) based on their ingredients, including whether they contain microplastics, hormone disruptors, or other harmful chemicals. The EWG Verified label is a quick way to spot cleaner products, but even if a product isn’t certified, you can still check its individual ingredients for red flags.
Yuka
Initially designed for food, Yuka has expanded to include cosmetics, making it a great all-in-one tool for health-conscious consumers. Like Beat the Microbead, Yuka lets you scan a product barcode, but it takes things further by assigning a score out of 100 based on its overall safety. Products flagged as poor quality come with suggested alternatives, so you’re not left wondering what to buy instead.
Microplastics in cosmetics aren’t just a tiny problem—they’re a massive environmental issue that’s not going away on its own. The good news? Every purchase is a chance to support brands that actually care about sustainability. Grab one of the apps and start scanning—a simple step toward a cleaner beauty routine and a healthier planet.
This Was About Microplastics in Cosmetics
As the movement to reduce microplastics in cosmetics grows, it’s crucial to expand our focus and take a stand not just against microplastics in personal care products, but against plastic pollution in all its forms. You can start by making informed choices about the products you buy, but you can do more.
Consider teaming up with the Plastic Pollution Coalition, an organization doing amazing work to raise awareness and inspire action. They offer educational webinars and provide opportunities to take direct action by signing petitions on future regulatory developments and proposed plastic bans. Get started now by visiting here. I hope to see you on one of their monthly webinars!
References
- Nasrabadi, A. E., Kabirinia, F., & Bonyadi, Z. (2025). Assessment of microplastic release from facial and body scrubs in aquatic ecosystems. Applied Water Science, 15:19. Retrieved from: Assessment of microplastic release from facial and body scrubs in aquatic ecosystems | Applied Water Science ↩︎
- Kumar, A., & Duhan, S. (2019). Microplastics in the environment: Occurrence, fate, and toxicity. National Center for Biotechnology Information. Retrieved from Microplastics in the environment: Occurrence, fate, and toxicity ↩︎
- MDPI. (n.d.). Special issue on microplastics. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Retrieved from Special issue on microplastics ↩︎
- U.S. Congress. (2015). H.R.1321 – Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015. Congress.gov. Retrieved from H.R.1321 – Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015 ↩︎
- European Commission. (n.d.). Microplastics. European Commission. Retrieved from Microplastics ↩︎
