"True beauty comes from nature, not plastic. It's time to rethink what we put on our skin and into our environment." Let’s start with your daily morning routine— a splash of water, a dab of face wash and a swirl of face cream. You feel refreshed and all set to face the day. Now, what if I told you that this innocent daily ritual could actually be making your skin worse and not to forget, contributing to a global environmental crisis? It is happening because of microplastics. Microplastics in the environment is a widely spoken topic but our aim with this blog is to educate and highlight the fundamental need of getting rid of microplastics in cosmetics.
What did I just say 😲? Yes, it's Microplastics!
The beauty industry, known for its glamour and allure, hides a shocking truth in the form of microplastics. From the sparkle of our eyeshadow to the silky smooth feel of our favourite exfoliating scrub, microplastics have entered our daily beauty routines in a whisper.
So, how did we end up with plastics in our beauty routines?
Basically, Microplastics are used to enhance the viscosity (thickness) of your lotions, face washes, shampoos, and just about any personal care products! When you apply such products, microplastic forms a layer on your skin, clogging your pores, preventing your skin from breathing or absorbing any essential nutrients from the products you apply.
Let’s first understand microplastics meaning deeply.
What are Microplastics?
Microplastics are liquid plastics or synthetic polymers, often used for viscosity and to increase shelf life, widely used in many skin care products like the cleansers, body washes, or even lotions. The internet holds ample explanations for microbeads that are typically used for exfoliation in skin care products. You can even find microplastics in cosmetics like mascara, eye liners, lipstick, eye shadow and more.
Now, the main question is —why is it being widely used and yet not spoken about?
Because these are the liquid polymers that blend in with all the liquid extracts of natural ingredients or chemicals easily and are cost-effective.
Time for a research-backed fact: According to the research submitted by Plastic Soup Foundation, about 87% of products contain microplastics that too from the top ten best-selling cosmetics brands globally.
So, after knowing the microplastics meaning, do you think that it’s the right approach followed by the beauty industry? We at La Pink don’t believe so. We are aimed at developing awareness about microplastics with #SayNoToMicroplastics campaign and are making 100% Microplastic Free Formulation products accessible to every consumer. The quality is top notch and price is worthy of the results you will receive.
Why are Microplastics Added to Cosmetics?
This question delves into a complex web of reasons behind their presence. While it's evident that microplastics can be found in a wide array of products across different categories like toothpaste, hairspray, lipstick, face cream, and shampoo, understanding the rationale behind their inclusion requires a deeper exploration.
Well, since the 1960's, microplastics have been used for low cost products. But, now, with time it can be found everywhere in use. Here are some of the reasons why companies, including the big brands, are using microplastics in their products:
- Ingredient Cohesion: Microplastics are used to bind the ingredients together in a product.
- Dilution of Solids: They are employed to dilute other solid components present in the formulation.
- Thickness Enhancement: Microplastics contribute to increasing the thickness or viscosity of the product.
- Preventing Separation: They help in preventing the separation of oil and liquid components within the product.
- Skin, Hair, or Nail Coating: Microplastics can form a thin coating on the skin, hair, or nails, providing specific properties or effects.
- Waterproof Properties: They add waterproof properties to face care & hair care products, making them resistant to water.
- Hair Setting: Microplastics can be used to set hair in place.
While these benefits sound great, the impact of microplastics is leading many to look for greener alternatives. Which is why you have us! Viable alternatives like La Pink exist to fulfil these functions without resorting to the use of microplastics.
How Microplastics are Affecting Your Skin?
Plastics, used in any form can be dangerous and here, it’s the matter of your own sensitive skin. They can have a caustic effect on your skin in the short and long term. While microplastics are commonly used to exfoliate the dead skin cells, they don’t get dissolved or absorbed by your skin. Instead, they can create tiny tears on your skin’s surface, leading to irritation and inflammation. And what happens in the long run? Damaging your skin barrier, making it more prone to sensitivity and breakouts.
Here are some of the major effects of microplastics over skin
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Consumers are becoming more aware of the risks associated with microplastics and are seeking alternatives. Brands like La Pink are responding by offering products that use natural exfoliants like apricot and coffee.
Understanding the risks of microplastics in beauty products is crucial for making informed choices as consumers. By opting for products that are microplastic free face care, we can contribute to healthier skin and hair.
The Environmental and Health Risks Associated with Microplastics in Beauty Products
Microplastics have become a significant environmental and health concern due to their widespread use in beauty products. These minuscule particles are often found in exfoliating scrubs, toothpaste, and other personal care items, contributing to microplastic pollution that poses risks to both marine life and human health.
When these microplastics wash down the drain, they end up in our oceans and waterways, where they are ingested by marine animals. This ingestion can lead to various adverse effects on marine life, including reduced feeding efficiency, internal injuries, and even death. Additionally, the accumulation of microplastics in the food chain can have far-reaching consequences for ecosystem health.
In terms of human health, the use of beauty products containing microplastics can also pose risks. For instance, microplastics used for exfoliation can cause skin irritation and exacerbate conditions like eczema. Moreover, inhaling airborne microplastics during product application or removal may pose respiratory risks over time.
As awareness grows about the health impacts of microplastics in beauty products, there is a growing call for more sustainable alternatives and stricter regulations on their use.
Consumers can make a difference by choosing products that are microplastics free or opting for natural exfoliants like sugar or coffee. By making informed choices and supporting eco-friendly brands, we can help reduce the negative effects of microplastic in the environment.
How to Spot Microplastics in Your Product?
As a conscious beauty consumer, it's essential to be aware of how to identify and avoid microplastics in your self-care routine. Here are some tips to help you make informed choices and opt for products that are free from harmful microbeads:
- Read Product Labels: Check the ingredients list on beauty products before purchasing. Look out for terms like "polyethylene" and "polypropylene," which are common types of microplastics used in skincare and haircare products. Specifically, if you see the product having any ingredient starting with poly…, it's best if you avoid using that product.
- Choose Natural Exfoliants: Instead of products with synthetic microbeads, opt for those that use natural exfoliants such as sugar, apricot, oatmeal, or crushed fruit seeds. These alternatives are gentle on the skin and eco-friendly, providing effective exfoliation without the environmental impact of microplastics.
- Look for Certifications: Some products may carry certifications or labels indicating that they are free from microplastics or follow sustainable practices. Look for certifications like "Microplastic-Free" or "Eco-certified" to ensure you're choosing products that align with your values. At La Pink, our products come with 100% Microplastic Free Formulation, be it skincare or haircare, enriched with natural and safe-to-use ingredients that are worth using.
- Avoid Rinse-off Products with Microbeads: Be cautious when using rinse-off products like exfoliating scrubs and toothpaste, as they are more likely to contain microbeads. Opt for gentle alternatives or products that explicitly state they are microbead-free.
By following these tips and being mindful of your product choices, you can avoid the use of microplastics in your beauty routine and contribute to a cleaner environment while promoting healthier skin and hair.
Transform Your Skin with Sustainable Microplastic-free Products
While wandering for beauty, it is important that you consider the hidden costs of the products you use. Microplastics may help us in giving the ultimate look but they do come with significant drawbacks for our skin as well as environment. So, make sure to be mindful of the ingredients used in skin care products.
Choosing microplastic-free beauty products will not only benefit your skin but also support a healthier planet. That's where La Pink comes in. At La Pink, we are committed to offering high-quality, microplastic-free skincare products that deliver outstanding results without compromising on safety or sustainability. Our products use natural, effective ingredients that enhance your beauty routine while protecting the environment.
La Pink stands out as a brand committed to providing 100% Microplastic-Free Formulations in skincare, body care, and hair care products. Their formulations are crafted with natural ingredients that are gentle yet effective, ensuring that your beauty routine is not only eco-friendly but also beneficial for your skin and hair.
