February. 14, 2022

Plastic-free cosmetics

Plastic-free cosmetics is one of the requirements of the products in our range. This is not only better for the environment, but also for your health. In this article we explain why.

Organic and environmentally friendly cosmetics = without plastic

At Flow Cosmetics we embrace organic and environmentally friendly cosmetics; of makeup, facial care, soap until sustainable hair products. Even our make-up brushes are sustainable. Our offering is zero-waste and plastic free.

We sometimes become despondent when we focus too much on environmental problems, such as plastic in cosmetics. It feels like mopping with the tap open. Yet we think it is important to share as much information as possible about plastic in cosmetics with you. Not to scare you, but because we think you should be informed.

What is microplastic and why is it used in cosmetics?

One form of plastic in cosmetics are microplastics. These are, as the name suggests, very small plastic particles. Also microbeads named. These microscopic particles are usually made of synthetic polymer. Microbeads are added in cosmetics for scrub or peeling purposes. They generally look smoother than natural ingredients. Microplastic is also used in shampoo and conditioner to make them easier to rinse.

Why Zero Plastic; ie cosmetics without plastic?

Not only is more and more research being done into what microplastics are and how they affect the environment. More and more attention is being paid to the effect on our health. One thing is certain; plastic-free cosmetics packaging is better for the environment and for our own well-being.

What is the problem with plastic in cosmetics?

Everyone understands that plastic in your cosmetic products is not good for your skin. However, a lot of microplastics are used in personal care products. Why is that? Plastic in cosmetics gives the illusion of good results. The 'illusion'... because it doesn't add any noticeable skin care value. On the contrary; plastic in cosmetics is associated with a serious effect on our health. This is also evident recent research into microplastics that they are harmful to human cells.

In addition, it is used in many products as a cheap filler (sometimes for 10% of the total composition). Unbelievable actually and also unnecessary, because there are so many better alternatives.

microplastics in cosmetics

What is the effect of plastic on the environment?

Plastic in cosmetics not only affects our health, but also the environment. Plastic is not biodegradable and therefore ends up permanently in our ecosystem. The beauty industry has made some progress recently in tackling plastic waste. More attention is being paid to plastic packaging. But especially when we look at the use of microbeads, there is still a long way to go in the cosmetics industry.

Microbeads in cosmetics are so small that they are not blocked by the filters of water treatment plants and thus end up in the rivers and oceans. This makes them part of the 'plastic soup'. The particles become polluted and are eaten by sea creatures. In this way they are passed on in the food chain and eventually end up on our plate.

Started in 2012 Beat the Microbead campaigns against rinse-off cosmetic products containing microbeads made of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or nylon.

Recognize plastic in cosmetics

Plastic in cosmetics comes in different forms and names. That is why the plastics present are sometimes difficult to recognize. It is best to view the INCI list of your care products. To make it easier, we have listed below the most common names used for plastic ingredients in cosmetics:

Polyethylene, PE
polyethylene terephthalate,
Polypropylene, PP
Polyvinyl chloride, PVC
Polystyrene, PS
(Polyvinyl Acetate PVAc)
(Polyvinylpyrrolidone PVP)
Polymethyl methacrylate PMMA
Polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE (Teflon)
Polyester, PES (Polyester-1; Polyester-11)
Polyamide, PA (Nylon-12; Nylon-6; Nylon-66)
Polyurethane, PUR (Polyurethane-2; Polyurethane-14; Polyurethane-35)
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Copolymer, EVA
Polyimide, PI (Polyimide-1)
Acrylates Crosspolymer, ACS
Acrylates Copolymer, AC
(Polyquaternium-7, P-7)

Plastic in cosmetics app

It is impossible to remember all the names of the hundreds of plastic ingredients used in cosmetics. To support microplastic-free brands, a free plastic in cosmetics app has been developed. With this app you can scan cosmetics for microplastics. Beat the Microbead app is the fastest way to know if your cosmetics contain plastic ingredients!

cosmetics without microplastics

Cosmetics without microplastics

There are various quality marks for care products that guarantee the environmentally friendly origin of plant-based products. A recognition logo for cosmetics without microplastic is “Zero Plastic Inside”. Products with this certificate are 100% free of microplastics. All cosmetics from Flow Cosmetics and Korento Make-up have this quality mark.

Good news: BPA labels as a substance of very high concern

We would like to end with good news. Of course, that does not mean that BPA can have serious consequences for our health. But it is clear that this hormone disrupting substance "bisphenol A" or BPA is finally recognized as a cause for concern. After years of litigation against the plastic industry, the European Court reached a final ruling on December 21. A victory for our health and a sign that the pressure from the plastic industry can be resisted.

Buy plastic-free cosmetics

You too can take care of your health and the environment by purchasing completely plastic-free cosmetics. For this you have a plastic-free brand from Flow cosmetics and natural makeup guaranteed good!

For example, you can make a big difference with a plastic-free shampoo in the form of a natural shampoo bar. Get rid of plastic bottles and microplastic ingredients! Not only better for the environment, also for your hair. In addition, a shampoo bar is easy to carry and lasts a very long time. This plastic-free form is also available in a conditioner bar, body butter en natural soap.