How do you recognize microplastics in cosmetics
Unfortunately, microplastics are not easy to recognize on packaging. The plastics particles can be made from different types of plastic and just one slight change in molecules makes for a completely different ingredient with completely different INCI name. INCI stands for: International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients. So instead of writing it in our own language, we kind of all use the same language. How cool is that?
Recognize microplastics in cosmetics
So it might be difficult to recognize them all, but there are is one thing that stand out and is easy to recognize.
The following ingredients are commonly used in plastic particle:
• polyethylene
• acrylic copolymer
In general, the ingredient therefore starts with poly… on Beat the Microbead you will find an extensive overview of terms for microplastics ingredients.
Why is plastic added to cosmetics at all?
Microplastics may have been added to low-cost products since the 1960s and can now be found everywhere, even in the most remote places on Earth.
Microplastics are most commonly added in cosmetics to:
• Prevent an emulsion from separating into its oil and liquid components.
• Form a thin film on the skin, hair or nails.
• Set hair, add volume and protect it from moisture.
However microplastics are not necessary for these effects, there are multiple great 100% natural alternatives. That is why all our soap and shampoo bars are 100% plastic free.
What can you do to avoid microplastics?
Fortunately, there are more and more sustainable cosmetics out there without any microplastics and solo biodegradable ingredients. So it is quite possible to get a plastic-free bathroom!
- Switch to cosmetics made with natural and biodegradable ingredients. Like the soap and shampoo bars from Nature Bar.
- Research the brand and ingredients. Fortunately, Beat the micro bead makes it super easy for you. Here you will find a list of plastic-free brands. When in doubt, scan the product with the Beat the micro bead app.
- Sign the petition to eliminating microplastics in cosmetics.
