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Natural Scrubs – Why should you avoid microplastics?

In recent years, more and more people have been paying attention to the ingredients in the cosmetics they use. Scrubs, in particular, which are meant to help cleanse and rejuvenate the skin, have come under criticism. Why should you switch from scrubs containing microplastics to natural alternatives?

What are Microbeads?

Microbeads are small plastic particles with a diameter of less than 5 mm, intentionally added to cosmetics such as exfoliators to aid in cleansing and exfoliating the skin. They were developed in the 1970s but gained popularity in the 1990s when they began to be used as a replacement for natural ingredients like crushed shells or fruit seeds. Their popularity stemmed from their durability, low cost, and effectiveness compared to alternatives. Depending on the application, the size of microbeads varies—smaller ones are used in facial products, while larger ones are found in body scrubs to provide a more intense exfoliating effect.

The Impact of Microplastics on Our Body

Microplastics, commonly found in cosmetic products such as exfoliators and skincare items, can have a negative impact on the human body. These tiny plastic particles are made from synthetic polymers like polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). Studies suggest that microplastics can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and disrupt the hormonal function of the body by acting as endocrine disruptors. Some chemical compounds in microplastics, such as BPA and phthalates, can mimic hormones and increase the risk of conditions like infertility, fetal developmental disorders, and even cancer.

Microplastics are capable of adsorbing toxic organic compounds, such as PCBs or PFAS, which can accumulate on the surface of particles and be transported by water. Microbeads in cosmetics pose an environmental threat due to the ease with which they can be ingested by organisms living at lower levels of the food chain. These microplastics accumulate in the digestive systems of these organisms, potentially causing health damage and leading to the transfer of microplastics to higher levels of the trophic chain, including to organisms consumed by humans. These microbeads are difficult to remove from wastewater treatment plants, allowing them to enter rivers, seas, and oceans, where they can persist for hundreds of years, contributing to long-term environmental pollution.

Additionally, due to the small size of the particles, microplastics can penetrate the skin barrier, especially in cosmetic products applied directly to the body, further increasing the risk of their impact on human health.

Read the MDPI article – Microplastics (MPs) in Cosmetics: A Review on Their Presence in Personal-Care, Cosmetic, and Cleaning Products (PCCPs) and Sustainable Alternatives from Biobased and Biodegradable Polymers

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Natural Scrubs – An Alternative to Microplastics

Why should you choose natural ingredients?

Natural scrubs, based on ingredients such as sea salt, sugar, coffee, or fruit seeds, are not only effective and gentle on the skin but are also much less likely to cause irritation or allergies, making them ideal for people with sensitive skin. Moreover, these biodegradable ingredients are environmentally friendly, unlike microplastics, which can persist in ecosystems for hundreds of years. An additional benefit is their nourishing effect – the natural plant oils found in these scrubs not only exfoliate but also moisturize the skin, supporting its regeneration and improving elasticity, thus enhancing both health and cosmetic benefits.

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What are the benefits of giving up microplastics?

  1. Improved cosmetic care quality ⮕ Natural exfoliating ingredients, such as ground fruit seeds or coffee, are not only biodegradable but also rich in nutrients that can support skin health. Unlike microplastics, which serve only a mechanical function, natural ingredients often provide additional benefits, such as moisturizing, skin regeneration, or improving skin elasticity.
  2. Environmental protection ⮕ Microplastics, including microbeads, can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, polluting water, soil, and air. Their small size allows them to easily penetrate aquatic ecosystems, where they are ingested by marine organisms, potentially disrupting the food chain and negatively impacting entire ecosystems. Eliminating microplastics from cosmetics reduces this pollution and helps protect marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Additionally, you support local producers who adopt eco-friendly practices—acting locally, thinking globally.
  3. Reduced health risks ⮕ Microplastics can enter the human body through the consumption of contaminated water or seafood, as well as through skin contact when using cosmetics. There is growing evidence that microplastics can accumulate in the body and cause inflammatory reactions and health problems, such as tissue damage or hormonal imbalances. Avoiding microplastics in cosmetics may reduce exposure to these harmful substances.
  4. Promoting sustainable and biodegradable alternatives ⮕ Many cosmetic companies are introducing alternatives to microplastics, based on natural ingredients like sea salt, sugar, fruit seeds, or coffee. These ingredients are biodegradable and decompose within a few months, significantly reducing their environmental impact. Replacing microplastics with natural alternatives contributes to more sustainable production and consumption.

Read the Frontiers article – Personal Care and Cosmetic Products as a Potential Source of Environmental Contamination by Microplastics in a Densely Populated Asian City

How to Find the Right Natural Scrubs?

  1. Check the Ingredients ⮕ Natural scrubs should contain plant-based exfoliating ingredients such as sugar, sea salt, ground fruit seeds, or coffee. Avoid products that contain synthetic particles like microplastics (polyethylene, polypropylene). Instead, look for scrubs with biodegradable ingredients. Plant oils, butters (e.g., shea butter), and herbal extracts in scrubs additionally moisturize and nourish the skin.
  2. Certificates and Labels ⮕ To ensure that a scrub is eco-friendly and free from harmful substances, look for products with certifications like Ecocert, USDA Organic, Cosmos Organic, or the Vegan Society. These labels confirm that the product meets the appropriate standards and contains natural ingredients.
  3. Match to Skin Type ⮕ Choosing the right scrub should be tailored to your skin type. For dry or sensitive skin, scrubs with fine, gentle particles (e.g., sugar or oats) work best, while for oily or normal skin, you can opt for more intense, coarse scrubs, such as sea salt or ground fruit seeds.
  4. Ethical Brands ⮕ It’s worth seeking out brands that not only promote natural ingredients but also care about sustainability, such as using biodegradable or recycled packaging.
  5. Reviews and Recommendations ⮕ Reading reviews and opinions from other users is a valuable tool when choosing the right scrub. It’s helpful to check what experiences others have had with a particular product.

Ready to make a conscious choice?

Switching from microplastics in scrubs to natural alternatives is not only a matter of skincare but also of ecological responsibility. Remember, your purchasing decisions have power—by choosing natural, vegan, or organic cosmetics, you’re choosing your health and the planet we live on. Opt for natural scrubs and enjoy a safe skincare routine!

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