State of microbeads in facial scrubs: persistence and the need for broader regulation

Abstract

Microbeads are small spherical plastic particles used as exfoliants in personal care products. Unfortunately, they have been found in the marine environment and are considered a significant contributor to global plastic pollution. In response, several countries have implemented microbead bans over the last few years. Here, we examined the exfoliant (scrubbing particles) composition of 28 facial scrubs from different regions in the presence and absence of microbead bans. We identified that over half of the exfoliant types identified in this study are microbeads, revealing the persistence of microbeads across various stages of microbead ban implementation. In regions with full bans, six out of eight products still contain microbeads, with some containing up to 6298 ± 1543 beads per gram of facial wash, suggesting the need for stronger legislation enforcement. We also identified challenges in distinguishing between microbeads composed of conventional plastics and synthetic waxes by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. This study highlights the need to broaden the scope of microbead bans to include synthetic waxes, as they are not currently regulated. These findings underscore the importance of a broader and clearly articulated definition of microbeads in legislation to guide industry formulation and consumer choice of microbead-free products.