Microbeads, once popular in facial scrubs, body washes and even toothpaste, are now recognised as a major threat to both our skin health and the environment.
What Are Microbeads?
Microbeads are tiny, solid plastic particles, usually less than 5mm in diameter, made from materials like polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Introduced in the late 1960s, they really started to gain in popularity in the 1990's, their smooth, round shape, making them a less abrasive alternative to natural exfoliants and were originally marketed as a "gentle" way to cleanse and polish the skin.
Why Microbeads Are Bad for Your Skin
While they might feel smooth to the touch, microbeads are not actually beneficial for your skin's health. Here’s why:
1. Ineffective and Potentially Damaging
Microbeads are too uniform and soft to effectively exfoliate dead skin cells, they simply roll over the skin without removing much debris. Overuse of products that contain microbeads can create small tears in the skin's surface, leading to irritation, increased sensitivity, and inflammation.
2. Disruption of the Skin Barrier
Healthy skin relies on a strong lipid barrier to retain moisture and defend against environmental aggressors. Harsh or improper exfoliation with microbeads can disrupt this barrier, making the skin more prone to dryness and redness.
3. Clogged Pores and Breakouts
Ironically, products containing microbeads - often marketed for "clear skin" - can actually worsen clogged pores. Because microbeads are non-biodegradable, they can get stuck in pores rather than being rinsed away completely, potentially exacerbating acne and blackheads.
How Microbeads Harm the Planet
The impact of microbeads extends far beyond our homes, affecting our seas and marine life:
1. Water Pollution
After rinsing off skincare products, microbeads travel down drains and often slip through water filtration systems due to their small size, where they eventually end up in rivers, lakes, and oceans.
2. Harm to Marine Life
Marine animals, from plankton to fish, turtles, and even whales, often mistake microbeads for food. Microplastics also attract toxic pollutants from the surrounding water, making them even more dangerous when consumed.
3. Entry into the Food Chain
When sea creatures ingest microbeads, these plastics can bioaccumulate up the food chain, eventually reaching our dinner tables.
Why You Will Never See Mircrobeads in ishga Products
Recognising the severe environmental threat, many countries have introduced bans on microbeads in personal care products, including the UK. At ishga, we are certified organic by the Soil Association which means microplastics are prohibited from being used in any of our products.
Natural, Sustainable Exfoliation
Thankfully, we have products that can gently and effectively exfoliate your skin, while being kind to the planet. Our Exfoliating Face Wash and Exfoliating Face Maskboth contain fine seaweed grains that easily remove dead skin cells to reveal a healthy, radiant appearance. The seaweed granules and Scottish seawater combine to detoxify and stimulate the lymphatic system for a healthy glow. Our Hebridean Sea Salt Scrub is an effective scrub for the body, containing pure sea salt granules blended with our signature essential oil blend.
By avoiding products with plastic microbeads and opting for natural, sustainable alternatives, you’re not only protecting your skin’s health - you’re also supporting the planet. Let’s cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish our skin responsibly!
