Introduction
The glitter industry is at a turning point. For decades, conventional glitter — made from polyester plastic film cut into tiny reflective particles — has been ubiquitous in cosmetics, crafts, festivals, and industry. But that plastic leaves a legacy long after the sparkle fades.
Glitter particles are, by definition, microplastics. Each particle is less than 5mm in size, meaning it falls into the internationally recognised classification for microplastics — plastic fragments small enough to pass through water filtration systems, enter the food chain, and accumulate in the environment indefinitely.
The response from regulators, brands, and consumers has been clear: the era of conventional plastic glitter is ending. Microplastic-free glitter is not a niche trend. It is the future of the industry.
What Are Microplastics and Why Do They Matter?
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5mm. They originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items, industrial processes, and — significantly — the direct release of products that contain small plastic particles, such as conventional glitter.
Microplastics have been detected in:
- Ocean water and marine life (including fish consumed by humans)
- Drinking water sources worldwide
- Human blood, lung tissue, and breast milk
- Soil and agricultural land
- Arctic snow and deep ocean trenches
The health and environmental consequences of long-term microplastic exposure are still being studied — but the precautionary principle has driven regulators to act.
The EU Glitter Ban: What Happened and What It Means
In October 2023, the European Union’s restrictions on intentionally added microplastics came into effect under REACH regulation. This regulation prohibits the sale of glitter made from synthetic polymer microplastics — which includes most conventional polyester glitter.
Key provisions of the EU ban:
- Applies to glitter sold as a cosmetic ingredient or in cosmetic products in the EU
- Covers loose glitter and glitter in formulations (nail polish, face products, etc.)
- Transition periods vary by product category — some up to 2029
- UK has indicated it will introduce similar restrictions following Brexit
For any brand supplying cosmetic or craft glitter into the EU — or planning to — this is not a future consideration. It is a current business requirement.
What Is Microplastic-Free Glitter?
Microplastic-free glitter is manufactured from materials that do not fall under the synthetic polymer microplastics definition. The primary alternative currently in use at scale is:
Cellulose-Based (Biodegradable) Glitter
Made from sustainably sourced plant-based cellulose — most commonly from eucalyptus trees. Cellulose glitter:
- Is not classified as a synthetic polymer microplastic
- Is compliant with EU REACH microplastics restrictions
- Biodegrades naturally in soil and water — typically within 4–6 weeks
- Contains no aluminium coating or plastic backing
- Is non-toxic and skin-safe for cosmetic applications
How Does Biodegradable Glitter Compare to Conventional Glitter?
| Property | Conventional Polyester Glitter | Biodegradable Cellulose Glitter |
|---|---|---|
| Base material | PET plastic film | Plant-based cellulose (eucalyptus) |
| Decomposition | Hundreds of years | 4–6 weeks in soil/water |
| EU REACH compliant | No (restricted Oct 2023) | Yes |
| Microplastics | Yes — a microplastic by definition | No |
| Brightness / sparkle | Very high | High (slightly less reflective) |
| Skin safety | Tested varieties are safe | Non-toxic, skin-safe |
| Price | Lower | Moderately higher |
| Shelf life | Indefinite | Stable with correct storage |
Is Biodegradable Glitter as Bright as Conventional Glitter?
This is the question we hear most often. The honest answer: modern biodegradable glitter has improved dramatically and continues to improve. In most cosmetic applications, the visual difference is minimal to imperceptible.
Where there is a difference: biodegradable glitter is typically slightly less intensely reflective in very high-metallic or ultra-holographic effects. For most cosmetic, craft, and festival applications, the performance is comparable.
We always recommend requesting samples before placing a bulk order — especially when reformulating an existing product from conventional to biodegradable glitter.
Who Needs Biodegradable Glitter Right Now?
- Any brand selling cosmetics into the EU or UK market
- Festival and event companies committed to sustainability pledges
- Children’s product manufacturers (parents increasingly seek plastic-free options)
- Retailers with sustainability policies (Sephora, ASOS, etc. have supplier requirements)
- Brands pursuing B Corp, 1% for the Planet, or similar sustainability certifications
- Any brand wanting to future-proof against incoming global restrictions
American Glitters Inc. Biodegradable Glitter Range
At American Glitters Inc., we manufacture biodegradable cellulose glitter compliant with EU REACH microplastics regulations. Our range is:
- Made from sustainably sourced plant-based cellulose
- Available in multiple particle sizes — from ultra-fine to chunky
- Available in a wide range of shades including metallics and colour effects
- ISO 14001:2015 certified — manufactured under an environmental management system
- Tested for skin safety and cosmetic compliance
- Available with OEM / private label packaging
Request free biodegradable glitter samples