After discovering a beauty product contains microplastics – itty bitty pieces of non-biodegradable plastic that are often naked to the human eye – most people would toss it back on the shelf without a second thought. Yet sadly, microplastics in beauty products are everywhere, and many of us still buy them without even knowing.
It’s pretty obvious why you wouldn’t want to expose yourself to plastic – recent studies for example found that our brains are now 0.5 per cent plastic. Yikes. The problem is, they can harm the environment, too. When washed down the drain after we remove our makeup or take a shower, microplastics in beauty products collect in waterways, leaking chemicals into the water and surrounding soil. Microplastics also threaten aquatic life as they’re often mistaken for food.
The good news? You don’t have to be a scientist to keep plastic out of your beauty bag. So, as promised, here’s how to avoid purchasing beauty products containing microplastics. So we stop harming ourselves and the planet.
Choose Natural Exfoliants
One of the most common forms of microplastics in beauty products is the microbead, often used to exfoliate the skin. But thanks to 19 countries (and counting) banning their sale, many brands are now turning to natural alternatives.
Sugar, coffee grounds, and nuts can just as effectively remove dead skin cells. If you have sensitive skin, go for fruit enzymes that gently dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells without physically scrubbing the skin.
Shop Natural and Organic Brands
Whilst natural brands use plant-based ingredients that can be broken down by microorganisms, this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re grown and processed without chemicals, such as pesticides, fertilisers, and GMOs. To really protect the planet, shop brands that are both natural and organic, so that when they do return to the earth, they won’t negatively affect soil, water, and ecosystems.
Prioritise Powder Products
Powder blushes and bronzers are making a comeback in 2025 and we couldn’t be more excited. *Internally screams.* Not only do they absorb excess oil, last longer on the skin, easily blend, and not leak (RIP to all the innocent makeup bags), but they also sidestep one major issue: microplastics in beauty products. Because powder formulas require fewer ingredients, there’s no need for emulsifiers, thickeners, or preservatives which are often synthetically made with plastic.
Look Out for the ‘Zero Plastic Inside’ Logo
Any products that can 100 per cent guarantee no microplastics, or any other types of plastic, will have a ‘Zero Plastic Inside’ logo. So far, over 150 brands have been approved for the certification, including Weleda, Dr. Lipp, and UpCircle.
Check Beat the Micro Bead App Before Purchasing
Most microplastics in beauty products are almost impossible to pronounce (can anyone actually say “trimethylsiloxysilicate”?) let alone remember. Luckily, you don’t have to with Beat the Micro Bead app. Simply download it for free onto your phone from the App Store and start scanning ingredient lists to see if microplastics are present.
5 Microplastic-Free Must-Haves
Lush Co-Mingle Body Scrub – AED 160.00
We’re so ready to mingle with this body scrub by Lush. Get up close n’ personal with ground tagua nut and bamboo exfoliate whilst Fair Trade shea butter quenches the skin’s thirst, and then some. Naturally fragranced with calming lavender oil, you can get your zen on and smell beautiful doing it.
UpCircle SPF 25 Mineral Sunscreen 60ml – 72.00
Reef-safe and non-comedogenic, UpCircle SPF 25 Mineral Sunscreen is one we’d happily slather on multiple times a day. It fights sun damage with naturally sourced non-nano zinc oxide, whilst upcycled raspberry seeds protect against free radical damage that leads to collagen loss. Absorbing quickly into the skin without any white cast, it’s suitable for all skin types after a dewy finish. And just in case you aren’t sold (yet), it’s also won multiple awards and contains none of those microplastics in beauty products that we’re trying to avoid.
Youth to the People Yerba Mate Resurfacing + Exfoliating Energy Facial with Enzymes + Niacinamide – 225.00
Less than 5 mins to go from drab to fab? Youth to the People has it covered in 2 with this at-home resurfacing facial treatment for deep exfoliation wherever you are. The non-drying (hi, niacinamide) formula features pineapple and papaya enzymes to melt away dead skin cells and sustainable micro-exfoliants for irresistibly soft skin. No microplastics in beauty here, thank you very much. Lazy has never looked better!
Dr. Lipp Before and After Hair Mask 134.00
Everyone knows Dr. Lipp has perfected the pout, but if you haven’t tried the Before and After Hair Mask, you’re missing out. Big time. Made with 100 per cent natural ingredients, including coconut oil, aloe vera, and sugar cane, it seals in moisture to prevent split ends, frizz, and the toughest of tangles. Plus, if you’re ever short on conditioner, face cream, or body lotion, you can whip it out for these, too.
KOSAS Blush Is Life Powder – 135.00
You haven’t lived until you’ve tried this powder blush by KOSAS – kinda dramatic, definitely true. Baked with squalane and hyaluronic acid for a boost of hydration, it won’t cling to dry patches, separate on the skin, or block pores. Every shade is mixed with another tone to create dimension and mimic how the skin naturally changes in different lighting. From Butterflies to Dreamland, it’s a rite of passage for girly girls.
