Microplastics in your skincare?
When we think of plastic, we quickly think of plastic packaging, but plastic as an ingredient? Yes, you read that right: plastic is also used as an ingredient in many day creams, shampoos and other cosmetic products. We call these microplastics. In this blog we will tell you what microplastics exactly are, where they occur, and why we at Hypogeen choose an alternative.
What are microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, usually smaller than five millimeters. In cosmetics, this specifically concerns primary microplastics: microplastics that are deliberately added to products. For example, they improve the texture, spreadability or stability of creams and shampoos. It may sound innocent, but the impact of microplastics is greater than you think.
Another type of microplastics are secondary microplastics, which are created by the breakdown of larger pieces of plastic, such as packaging or clothing. Although these are less relevant to skin care, they do contribute to growing plastic pollution.
Why do we avoid microplastics?
At Hypogeen we consciously omit microplastics, and we do this for two clear reasons:
- Microplastics are on the list of ingredients that may cause skin irritations, such as redness or itching. This is a risk, especially for people with sensitive skin. Because our products are hypoallergenic and specially formulated for even the most sensitive skin, we avoid these ingredients completely.
- Microplastics are harmful to the environment, because imagine: you apply sunscreen and jump into the sea on a hot summer day. What happens to the microplastics in your cream? Exactly, they end up in the water. Because microplastics do not break down, they remain floating in nature, where they harm marine life and contribute to plastic pollution.
How can I recognize microplastics at the INCI?
Microplastics are often hidden in products without you realizing it. They are difficult to recognize when you look at the INCI (ingredient list). Do you see names like Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) or Nylon? Then the product certainly contains microplastics. It is therefore smart to always check the ingredients list before purchasing or using a product. Do you want to make it extra easy? Copy the list and ask ChatGPT, for example, whether it contains microplastics. It is possible that the ingredients have been translated or that abbreviations are used. By checking it using such a method you prevent yourself from buying one incorrect product.
Alternatives to microplastics
Microplastics may be small, but their impact is big. By choosing products without microplastics, you help reduce plastic pollution and give your (sensitive) skin the best care. Our mission is not only to provide the best care for the skin, but also for our environment. The Hypogeen products contain natural alternatives that offer the same benefits, but without the disadvantages of microplastics. Would you like to know more about Hypogeen? Then read Our Story.
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