When we think of plastic, we often 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. This is called microplastics. In this blog, we explain what microplastics are, where they are found, and why we at Hypogeen choose an alternative.
What are microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, usually smaller than five millimeters. In cosmetics, it specifically refers to primary microplastics: microplastics that are deliberately added to products. They improve, for example, the texture, spreadability, or stability of creams and shampoos. It may seem harmless, but the impact of microplastics is bigger than you think.
Another type of microplastics are secondary microplastics, which are created by the breakdown of larger plastic pieces, such as packaging or clothing. While these are less relevant to skincare, they do contribute to the growing plastic pollution.
Why do we avoid microplastics?
At Hypogeen, we consciously avoid microplastics, and we do so for two clear reasons:
- Microplastics are on the list of ingredients that can potentially cause skin irritation, such as redness or itching. This is especially a risk for people with sensitive skin. Because our products are hypoallergenic and specifically developed for even the most sensitive skin, we completely avoid these ingredients.
Microplastics are harmful to the environment because imagine this: you apply sunscreen and jump into the sea on a warm summer day. What happens to the microplastics in your cream? Exactly, they end up in the water. Since microplastics don't break down, they remain floating in nature, where they harm marine life and contribute to plastic pollution.
Hypogeen Bath & Shower Gel
- Soothes and cleanses sensitive and dry skin.
- Restores the moisture balance.
- Contains Aloe Vera.
- Free from microplastics, fragrance, silicones, and colorants.
Wie kann ich Mikroplastik in der INCI erkennen?
Microplastics are often hidden in products without you realizing it. They’re hard to recognize when you look at the INCI (ingredients list). Do you see names like Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), or Nylon? Then the product definitely contains microplastics. It’s smart to always check the ingredients list before buying or using a product. Want to make it extra easy? Copy the list and ask, for example, ChatGPT if it contains microplastics. Sometimes the ingredients may be translated or abbreviations used. By checking in this way, you can avoid buying a wrong product.
Alternatives to microplastics
Microplastics may be small, but their impact is large. 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 skincare for your skin, but also for our environment. That's why Hypogeen products contain natural alternatives that provide the same benefits but without the downsides of microplastics. Want to know more about Hypogeen? Read on. Our Story.