Important News: EU Introduces New Rules for Microplastics in Cosmetics
Microplastics are small plastic particles that measure less than 5 mm on all conductors and edges . These almost invisible fragments are found in our surroundings - from the water to the air we breathe, and even in the foods we consume.
Microplastics come from a variety of sources, including broken down plastic bottles, wear and tear from car tires and microfibers released from synthetic textiles when we wash our clothes. These particles can also be found in everyday products like soap, toothpaste and, yes, even nail products.
Why is microplastic a problem?
Because microplastics don't just disappear. They accumulate in nature and can harm animals and plants. Because of their microscopic size, they can end up in our drinking water and in the food we eat. This raises concerns about their potential impact on human health and the environment .
What does this mean for cosmetics?
After extensive investigations by the European Chemicals Agency, it has become clear that microplastics must be taken seriously. The EU has therefore introduced new rules to limit the use of microplastics in various products, especially in cosmetics and cleaning products. From 17 October 2023, cosmetic products containing more than 0.01% plastic particles smaller than 5 mm will be banned. But there are some important details to note:
Loose glitter
From 17 October 2023, the marketing of non-degradable loose glitter will be prohibited. However, if you have already purchased products with non-degradable loose glitter before this date, it is still legal to use them. They simply must not be imported into EU countries or produced in the EU.
Glitter in nail products
Nail products already mixed with non-degradable glitter have a time-limited exemption in the new rules and can be sold until 2035. You can therefore still buy and use nail products already mixed with non-degradable glitter for many years yet.
Glitter in The Gel Collection 21free products
Because with our own brand The Gel Collection we have made it a mission to make responsible choices in terms of materials and ingredients, we have long since decided that we do not want to use microplastics. Therefore, microplastics are also already part of our blacklist of 21 types of harmful chemistry that we do not want in our gel products. You can therefore continue to use The Gel Collection 21free products with a clear conscience. See our entire blacklist and 21free list here .
Glitter in general - can you never use glitter again?
Do not worry. There is also good news: all forms of microplastics are not necessarily bad or prohibited. Going forward, glitter is still legal under the following conditions:
- that it is is biodegradable according to the definitions in the legislation.
- that its chemical structure does not contain carbon atoms.
- that it is under 5mm on all leads and edges
These exemptions mean that companies and brands are still allowed to use certain types of glitter as long as they meet these requirements. Exactly like we do with The Gel Collection products. In the future, it will simply be the types of glitter that do not pose the same risk to nature, animals and us humans. Glitter in itself is therefore not banned as long as it complies with the rules. Companies are simply being forced to make more responsible material choices forward.
The future of Microplastics
In the coming years, we expect that more rules and initiatives will be introduced to minimize the impact of microplastics on the environment. This means that both companies and consumers must be more aware of their choice of products and their long-term effects on our planet. Of course, we make sure to keep you updated on this important development and ensure that our products are always in accordance with the latest regulations and recommendations.
