Is your body scrub eco-friendly? What to use instead of plastic microbeads

You may have seen plastic microbeads in the news in the last few years. These common ingredients, found in many face and body scrubs and other personal care items, have been deemed a hazard to wildlife and oceans across the globe.

So what can you use instead to exfoliate your skin? Luckily, there are plenty of new options.

PLASTIC VS. CELLULOSE MICROBEADS

Plastic microbeads have contributed to the world’s plastic pollution problem at an alarming rate. One property that makes these ingredients particularly dangerous is that they are so small that they are difficult, if not impossible, to detect and clean up once they have made their way into waterways.

Although the Microbead-Free

Waters Act banned the use of plastic microbeads in rinse-off cosmetic products, the ban does not apply to any product that you leave on your skin. Therefore, some products are still being made that contain these harmful beads.

But more and more options containing cellulose microbeads are becoming available. Unlike plastic, cellulose is a plant-based material that easily breaks down without harming the environment. Pidanti Smoothing Polish is just one example of an exfoliating face and body scrub that contains cellulose microbeads in place of plastic.

Researchers are looking into the possibility of using cellulose as a thickening agent in shampoos instead of harsher ingredients that can irritate your skin and harm the environment.

DIY FACE AND BODY SCRUBS

You can also make your own DIY scrub at home, although be mindful of which ingredients you choose. Walnut shells and coarse-ground coffee, for example, are too abrasive and can damage your skin. A honey and sugar mixture, on the other hand, can gently exfoliate even the delicate skin on your lips.

Keep in mind that some sensitive skin subtypes, especially those with rosacea, may not be able to tolerate any physical exfoliation. Instead, these skin types can use chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid to gently remove dead skin cells, dirt and debris. Talk with your dermatologist about the best exfoliation technique and ingredients for your specific skin type.

BOTTOM LINE

Gone are the days of having to choose between being ecofriendly and getting smooth, glowing skin. Look for innovative cellulose microbeads in exfoliating products instead of plastic microbeads.

For more skincare tips and advice from Dr. Leslie Baumann, be sure to follow Baumann Cosmetic on YouTube, or follow @BaumannCosmetic on Instagram or Facebook.