Glitter ban: what the EU’s microplastics rule means for you

Wait… is glitter really banned?

If your business sells cosmetics, cleaning products, coatings, or any goods that contain microbeads or other tiny plastic particles, you’ve probably heard about the EU’s new crackdown on microplastics. Yes, that includes a lot of glitter!

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has introduced stringent new regulations to curb the environmental risks posed by synthetic polymer microparticles (SPM), commonly referred to as microplastics. Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055, which amends Annex XVII of the REACH Regulation, imposes a ban on intentionally added microplastics in products where their release into the environment is not adequately controlled – but this isn’t the end for glitter. 

Compliance with these new rules is critical for businesses operating in sectors where microplastics are used, and failure to adapt could result in market restrictions, reputational damage or regulatory penalties.

But what does this mean for your products? Do you need to reformulate? When do the rules kick in? And how do you stay compliant without losing your competitive edge?

At Ricardo, we specialise in helping companies navigate complex environmental regulations. Here, we break down the key aspects of the new restriction, explain how to determine if your products are affected, and outline the steps to ensure compliance.

What has been banned?

The new rules target intentionally added SPMs: tiny plastic bits that have been added to a formulation and which don’t break down naturally. Including:

• Cosmetic glitters (unless they’re biodegradable)
• Exfoliating microbeads in scrubs & cleansers
• Plastic abrasives in detergents & cleaning products
• Fake turf infill (those little rubber pellets)
• Slow-release coatings in fertilizers

But not all plastic is restricted – some products get a free pass (for now), including:

• Glitter in kids’ crafts (if it’s not in a wash-off product)
• Medical & veterinary products
• Industrial uses (where microplastics don’t escape into nature)
• Food & feed additives

Should you worry about microplastics in your product?

Follow this step-by-step check:

1. Does it contain solid plastic particles?
   
   • If no → You’re fine.
   • If yes → Keep reading.
2. Are they smaller than 5mm? (or 15mm if long and skinny, like fibers)
   
   • If no → you’re likely outside of scope
   • If yes → Could be a problem.
3. Are they added on purpose and are more than 0.01% of your product by weight? (For texture, sparkle, slow release, etc.)
   
   • If no (e.g., accidental contamination) → You’re okay.
   • If yes → Check the next point.
4. Do they break down naturally?
   
   • If yes (proven with lab tests) → You’re likely compliant.
   • If no → They’re likely banned.
5. Is there an exemption for your industry? (Like medical or food use?)
   
   • If yes → You can still sell, but must comply with extra rules.
   • If no → Time to reformulate.

When do I need to comply?

Some bans started in October 2023 (like loose glitter and microbeads in rinse-off cosmetics). Others have grace periods (up to 4-12 years for things like makeup, detergents, fragrance encapsulation and fake turf). The exact deadline depends on your product type, and reformulating might not be straightforward as alternatives might also be affected, so don’t assume you have years to figure it out!

Actions to take now

1. Check if your glitter or other microplastics are banned
   
   • Lab testing may be needed via approved methods to prove biodegradability.
   • Consider the particle size, function of the microplastic and the final use/disposal of the product.
2. Reformulate and find alternatives
   
   • Biodegradable glitters (made from cellulose, algae, etc.)
   • Natural exfoliants (like salt, sugar, or jojoba beads)
   • Different coatings or textures that don’t rely on plastics
3. Update labels & instructions (if exempt)
   
   • If you’re in an exempt category (like industrial use or pharmaceuticals), you’ll need to provide clear Instructions for Use and Disposal (IFUD) to prevent environmental contamination.
4. Report your microplastic emissions (if required)
   
   • Manufacturers and industrial users must submit estimates of SPM emissions to ECHA via IUCLID.

Need help navigating the rules?

Navigating these requirements can be complex, but proactive compliance ensures market access and minimises disruption. At Ricardo, we support businesses with:

• Product Compliance Assessments: Determining whether your products fall under the restriction.
• Degradation & Solubility Testing Support: Assisting with required lab testing and documentation, even for difficult-to-test substances.
• IFUD & Reporting Preparation: Drafting compliant instructions and emissions reports. Submitting notifications via IUCLID.

Don’t wait until the last minute to address the new restrictions. While the rules are strict, understanding the scope, exemptions and compliance pathways can help companies adapt successfully.

If you have any questions or need expert guidance, speak to one of our experts and we’ll find the best path forward.

Contact us today >

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