Microplastics

<h2>What it is</h2><p>Microplastics are intentionally added solid plastic particles, typically under 5 millimeters in size. In personal care and cosmetic products, they are commonly called microbeads and are made from synthetic polymers such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and nylon. These particles are designed to be durable and non-biodegradable. They are found in both rinse-off products (like facial scrubs and toothpastes) and leave-on products (like sunscreens, lipsticks, foundations, and deodorants), where they serve as exfoliants, binders, or texture enhancers.</p><h2>Where it comes from</h2><p>Microplastics enter the environment primarily through household wastewater. After products containing them are used, the particles are rinsed down the drain. Wastewater treatment plants are not designed to capture particles smaller than 5mm, so microplastics pass through and are released into rivers, lakes, and oceans. Additional sources include the breakdown of larger plastic items, synthetic clothing fibers, and industrial abrasives. Although many countries have banned microbeads in rinse-off cosmetics, leave-on products and other consumer goods still contribute to microplastic pollution.</p><h2>Animal and environmental impact</h2><p>Microplastics pose two major threats to marine life and ecosystems. First, they absorb persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as pesticides and flame retardants from surrounding water, becoming concentrated toxin carriers. Second, they resemble fish eggs or plankton and are ingested by a wide range of marine organisms, from zooplankton to fish, seabirds, and mammals. Ingested microplastics cause physical blockages, reduced feeding, and internal injuries. These particles and their associated toxins bioaccumulate up the food chain, eventually reaching humans who consume seafood. Microplastics also disrupt soil health when applied via sewage sludge used as fertilizer.</p><h2>How to spot it on labels</h2><p>Look for these common plastic ingredient names on product ingredient lists:</p><ul><li>Polyethylene (PE)</li><li>Polypropylene (PP)</li><li>Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)</li><li>Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)</li><li>Nylon (or Nylon-6, Nylon-12)</li><li>Acrylates copolymer</li><li>Styrene/acrylates copolymer</li><li>Polyurethane</li></ul><p>Terms like 'microbeads' or 'exfoliating beads' may also indicate microplastics. However, ingredients listed as 'natural exfoliants' (e.g., walnut shells, apricot seed powder) are not microplastics. When in doubt, check the product's certification (e.g., Leaping Bunny, EWG Verified) or contact the manufacturer.</p><h2>Alternatives</h2><p>Products without microplastics often use natural or biodegradable materials for exfoliation or texture. Effective alternatives include:</p><ul><li>Ground apricot seeds or walnut shells</li><li>Pumice powder</li><li>Oat flour or rice bran</li><li>Jojoba beads (wax-based, biodegradable)</li><li>Silica (diatomaceous earth)</li><li>Salt or sugar crystals</li></ul><!--freshness:faq--><div class="faq"><h2 id="faq">Frequently asked questions</h2><h3>Are all microplastics banned in cosmetics?</h3><p>No. Many countries have banned microbeads in rinse-off cosmetics (e.g., scrubs, toothpaste), but leave-on products (e.g., sunscreen, lipstick) often still contain microplastics. Bans also do not cover all plastic types or other consumer goods.</p><h3>Can microplastics be filtered out by water treatment plants?</h3><p>Most wastewater treatment plants cannot capture particles smaller than 5mm. A significant portion of microplastics passes through and enters rivers and oceans. Advanced filtration systems can reduce but not eliminate them.</p><h3>How do microplastics affect human health?</h3><p>Microplastics have been detected in human blood, lungs, and placentas. They can carry toxic chemicals and potentially cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular damage. Long-term health effects are still being studied.</p><h3>What is the difference between microplastics and microbeads?</h3><p>Microbeads are a specific type of microplastic—solid plastic particles used primarily for exfoliation. Microplastics include all plastic particles under 5mm, including microbeads, fibers from clothing, and fragments from larger plastic breakdown.</p><h3>Are biodegradable plastics safe alternatives?</h3><p>Biodegradable or bio-based plastics (e.g., PLA) may break down faster in industrial conditions, but many do not fully degrade in natural environments. They can still pose risks if not properly managed. Natural exfoliants (e.g., seeds, salt) are generally preferable.</p><h3>How can I avoid microplastics in my daily life?</h3><p>Check ingredient lists for polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, and other plastics. Choose products with natural exfoliants. Use a laundry filter to capture synthetic fibers. Avoid single-use plastics and support brands with clear no-microplastic policies.</p></div><!--/freshness:faq--><!--freshness:sources--><div class="sources"><h2 id="sources">Sources &amp; further reading</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.beatthemicrobead.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Beat the Microbead – Plastic Ingredients List</a></li><li><a href="https://www.5gyres.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">5 Gyres – Microplastic Research</a></li><li><a href="https://www.fao.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">FAO – Microplastics in Fisheries and Aquaculture</a></li><li><a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">EWG – Skin Deep Cosmetics Database</a></li><li><a href="https://www.unep.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">UN Environment Programme – Microplastics</a></li></ul></div><!--/freshness:sources-->