Cosmetics contain millions of plastic particles, says study

A study in the UK revealed that cosmetics and cleaning products contain huge quantities of plastic particles, which pose a threat to the environment and marine life.

Conducted by the researchers at Plymouth University, the study shows that close to 100,000 microbeads could be released in every single application of certain products, such as facial scrubs.

Each 150ml of the products could contain between 137,000 and 2.8 million microparticles.

Nearly 80t of unnecessary microplastic waste enters the sea every year from use of these cosmetics in the UK alone.

The particles used as bulking agents and abrasives will not be decomposed in wastewater treatment systems sometimes due to their small size.

Manufacturers use microplastics as an alternative to natural exfoliating materials in personal care products like hand cleansers, soaps, toothpaste, shaving foam, bubble bath, sunscreen and shampoo.

Plymouth University PhD student Imogen Napper said: "As the study unfolded I was really shocked to see the quantity of microplastics apparent in these everyday cosmetics.

"Currently, there are reported to be 80 facial scrubs in the UK market which contain plastic material, however some companies have indicated they will voluntarily phase them out from their products.

"In the meantime, there is very little the consumer can do to prevent this source of pollution."