From October 15th, glitter will be harder to find in Europe

While they are increasingly appearing on catwalks and on the faces of celebrities, sequins are now persona non grata in Brussels. Indeed, the European Commission decided on September 25 to eliminate all microplastics intentionally added to products under the EU’s Chemicals Regulations (REACH) for the good of the planet.

Purposeful? Prevent the release of approximately half a million tons of microplastics into the environment. It covers several areas, from cosmetics (scrubs, but also loose glitter or even microplastics used for texture) to granular fillers used on artificial sports surfaces, including “detergents, fabric softeners, polishes, fertilizers, plant protection products, toys, medicines and medical devices”.

Profitable initiative

The accepted limit covers all synthetic polymer particles smaller than 5 mm that are organic, insoluble and resistant to degradation. “The ban on intentionally added microplastics addresses a major environmental and citizen health concern. Microplastics are present in seas, rivers and land, as well as in food and drinking water. Today’s limit applies to very small particles, but it is an important step towards reducing human-caused pollution,” said Environment, Oceans and Fisheries Commissioner Virginius Sinkevičius.

The new measures taken on September 25 envisage different stages. Thus, we can read on the commission’s website that the first measures, such as the ban on loose glitter and microbeads, will begin to operate after the restrictions come into force on October 15. “In other cases, the sale ban will be applied after a longer period of time to allow the parties involved time to develop and move on to other solutions.” For scrubs, for example, brands have four years to adapt their products to this new regulation. A six-year ban on cosmetic products and perfumes was established. Finally, for microplastics in make-up products such as lipstick or nail polish, the deadline is set at… 12 years.

Fortunately, for glitter lovers or those looking to spruce up their Halloween costumes, there are other solutions. Indeed, some brands have developed biodegradable glitter, such as Si Si La Paillette, which is based on cellulose nanocrystals found in plants.

Or even Manucurist, which offers biodegradable nail polish. Solutions without impact on the planet, but whose brilliance does not decrease.