On October 16, 2023, a new Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 entered into force limiting the use of artificial particles - microplastics - including common synthetic glitter. The changes will gradually apply to various types of cosmetics and other products. The end of glitter in Europe? From October 17, 2023, the first products containing microplastics will disappear from the shelves.
The ban will be introduced in stages so that manufacturers can properly prepare for the phasing out of products made from synthetic polymer microparticles. In the beauty industry, this will apply to many makeup products with glitter, as well as some products with exfoliating particles, including gels, oils and whitening toothpastes. In other market segments - including detergents with microplastics and sports facility surfaces.
The European Union bans the use of glitter and other microplastics in cosmetics
The action to ban the use of synthetic polymer microparticles is aimed at the good of the environment - stopping the release of microplastics into waters , from which it ends up on our plates. This applies, among others, to glitter used in cosmetics, but also to artificial particles, mainly with a diameter of less than 5 mm , which are not degradable (resistant to them) and insoluble .
Microplastics are synthetic polymers less than 5 mm long. These compounds are organic, do not dissolve in water and are extremely resistant to degradation, so they remain in the environment for a long time.
fragment of EU regulation
Fortunately, glitter can be safely replaced with its biodegradable equivalent . This does not mean that glowing makeup cosmetics will completely disappear from store shelves. However, their formulas will change.
The goal is not to ban all glitter, but to replace plastic glitter with more environmentally friendly ones that do not pollute our oceans
statement by the European Commission
Ban on glitter and other microplastics. Gradual product withdrawal – what will disappear from the shelves first?
Peeling and glitter cosmetics come first . They are expected to start disappearing from store shelves after October 16. This applies to products with microplastic beads.
Later, from October 2027, the production ban will apply to rinse-off cosmetics , i.e. shampoos and gels.
From October 2028, microplastics will not be allowed in detergents and cleaning products , and from October 2029 - in care cosmetics remaining on the skin and hair , for example in balms, body creams, masks, gels or waxes.
After 2031, nail polishes and make-up cosmetics, including lipsticks , containing microplastics, as well as sports surfaces will not be allowed to be sold.
More information in the EU regulation: eur-lex.europa.eu .
