Cosmetics Europe has issued a recommendation on the use of solid plastic particles, also known as microbeads, in cosmetics. It has suggested that brands removed this ingredient from personal care products by 2020.
The inclusion of microbeads in some formulations has become increasingly controversial in recent years because of their impact on marine environments. While Cosmetics Europe suggested that the impact of microbeads in cosmetics and personal care products was considered minor compared to other sources of marine litter, it still issued a recommendation that their use be discontinued by 2020.
Cosmetics Europe's statement said it recommended discontinuing the use of "synthetic, solid plastic particles used for exfoliating and cleansing that are non-biodegradable in the marine environment."
Loïc Armand, President of Cosmetics Europe, said: "In adopting this Recommendation, Cosmetics Europe and its membership are addressing public concerns, and committing to work with regulators on a science based approach to the issue of plastic micro particles. We are also committed to building, with other international associations, global alignment of the cosmetics industry on this issue."
