Omar Khalid
Many people are unaware that plastic in shampoo refers to more than just the packaging. Shampoos often contain plastics commonly referred to as 'microbeads', which are microplastics smaller than 1mm in size. These microplastics are not biodegradable and contribute to plastic pollution in the environment, especially in oceans. They can be ingested by marine life and may eventually end up in the human food chain. To address this issue, consumers can opt for plastic-free shampoo alternatives, such as eco-friendly shampoo bars or refillable options, and choose products from brands that prioritize sustainability and transparency in their ingredient lists.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic in shampoo | Plastic in shampoo refers not only to the plastic bottles they are sold in but also to the presence of plastics in the shampoo itself. These plastics are commonly referred to as 'microbeads' or 'microplastics'. |
| Microplastics in shampoo | Microplastics are intentionally added to shampoo and other cosmetics. They are used to add exfoliating properties, create "gloss", and as fillers to bulk out products. |
| Common shampoo brands containing microplastics | Head & Shoulders, TRESemmé, Aussie, Pantene, Dove Advanced Hair Series, and many more. |
| Health impact of microplastics | The health impact of microplastics on humans is not fully known, but they have been found inside human bodies. They have been shown to cause infertility, inflammation, and cancer in lab animals. |
| Environmental impact of microplastics | Microplastics are not biodegradable and contribute to plastic pollution in the ocean, attracting waterborne toxins and bacteria and entering the food chain. |
| Plastic-free shampoo alternatives | Refillable shampoo, shampoo bars, zero-waste shampoo, organic materials-based shampoo, natural and biodegradable shampoo, and shampoo in compact metal containers or tubes. |
| Identifying microplastics in shampoo | Scan products with the "Beat the Microbead" app or look for common plastic ingredients like polyethylene (PE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), nylon, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polypropylene (PP). |
| Brands taking action | L'Oreal has eliminated plastic microbeads from all its exfoliant products since 2017 and from all rinse-off products, including shampoos, since 2020. Ethique and Yas Alpaca are other brands known for their plastic-free shampoo products. |
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What You'll Learn
Shampoo packaging and plastic pollution
Shampoo bottles are a significant contributor to plastic pollution. The plastic used to package shampoo and other personal care products is a major source of plastic waste. While some brands have started to incorporate recycled materials into their packaging, the widespread use of single-use plastics remains a concern. It is estimated that over 552 million shampoo bottles end up in landfills each year, and only a small percentage of these bottles are recycled. The plastic in these bottles can take hundreds of years to degrade, and even then, they only break down into tiny particles known as microplastics. These microplastics can be ingested by animals and find their way into the food chain, potentially impacting human health.
To address the issue of plastic pollution from shampoo packaging, consumers can opt for more sustainable alternatives. Refillable shampoo stations, for example, allow consumers to refill their bottles instead of purchasing new ones, reducing waste. Some companies also offer "forever bottles" with refill pouches or aluminium bottles that are 100% recyclable. Shampoo bars are another eco-friendly option that eliminates the need for plastic packaging altogether. These solid-form cleansers are just as effective as liquid shampoos but produce less waste.
In addition to choosing more sustainable packaging options, consumers can also advocate for change within the beauty industry. This includes engaging with brands on social media, signing petitions for sustainable practices, and supporting legislation to reduce plastic waste. Transparency is crucial, and brands should disclose their packaging practices, materials used, and efforts towards sustainability. By educating themselves and holding brands accountable, consumers can make informed decisions that benefit both their hair and the planet.
While individual actions are important, systemic change is also necessary to address plastic pollution effectively. Governments and local authorities have a role to play in managing waste and implementing policies to reduce plastic usage, such as banning certain single-use plastic products. By combining individual efforts with collective action, we can create a more sustainable future and reduce the impact of plastic pollution on our planet.
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Microplastics in shampoo
Plastic in shampoo is not just about the packaging. Many shampoos contain plastics, commonly referred to as 'microbeads'. These are often listed on the ingredients list under names such as polyethylene (PE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), nylon, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP). Microbeads are a type of microplastic smaller than 1mm. Even smaller are nanoplastics, which can pass through human skin.
Microplastics are not biodegradable, so when they enter the sea, they attract waterborne toxins and bacteria that stick to their surface and resemble food. They are then consumed by marine life and can enter the food chain, potentially ending up on our plates. The health impact of microplastics on humans is not yet fully understood, but research on animals has shown that they can cause infertility, inflammation, and cancer.
Some well-known shampoo brands that have been found to contain microplastics include Head & Shoulders, TRESemmé, Aussie, Pantene, and Dove. However, there are an increasing number of plastic-free alternatives available. These include shampoo bars, such as those offered by Nature Bar, Yas Alpaca, and By Humankind, as well as liquid shampoo brands like Ethique, which use natural ingredients and avoid plastic packaging.
To help reduce plastic pollution, consumers can opt for plastic-free shampoo brands and demand change from beauty companies that use plastic excessively. Apps such as Beat the Microbead can help consumers identify products that contain microplastics.
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Health risks of microplastics
While plastic in shampoo bottles is obvious, microplastics in shampoo are not always visible to the naked eye. These microplastics are any piece of plastic under 5mm in size, with microbeads being smaller than 1mm, and nanoplastics being small enough to pass through human skin.
The health risks of microplastics are a growing concern, with their potential to cause toxic effects on the human body. Here are some of the health risks associated with microplastics:
- Oral Intake and Food Consumption: Microplastics can enter the human body through oral intake and food consumption. They are found in seafood, salt, sugar, tea bags, milk, and bottled water. Europeans, for example, are exposed to approximately 11,000 particles per person per year of microplastics due to shellfish consumption.
- Inhalation: Microplastics can also be inhaled, and they have been detected in the air. Inhalation is another common route of exposure.
- Skin Contact: Microplastics can pass through human skin, especially nanoplastics, which are smaller in size. This allows them to enter the body through direct skin contact.
- Inflammation and Immune Response: Microplastics have been linked to inflammation and immune responses in the body. They can trigger complex toxicity and accumulate in the body, potentially leading to local particle toxicity.
- Organ Dysfunction: There is evidence that microplastics can impact organ dysfunction, including lung and liver effects. They may reach almost all organs after entering the human body.
- DNA Damage: Experimental models have shown that microplastics can cause DNA damage, which could have potential long-term health implications.
- Reproductive and Developmental Toxicity: Microplastics have been associated with reproductive and developmental toxicity in experimental models, indicating potential risks for reproductive health.
- Chronic Diseases: Epidemiological evidence suggests a potential link between microplastic exposure and various chronic diseases. However, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of this relationship.
- Environmental Impact: Microplastics contribute to plastic pollution, which can have indirect health consequences. They can disrupt the crucial roles of marine microorganisms in sequestering carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, ultimately affecting the health of our planet and, by extension, human health.
While the specific health risks of microplastics in shampoo have not been extensively studied, the presence of microplastics in personal care products contributes to the overall environmental and human health concerns associated with microplastic exposure.
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Eco-friendly shampoo alternatives
Shampoos often contain plastic, not only in the form of their bottles but also as microplastics in the product itself. These microplastics are not biodegradable and contribute to the growing issue of plastic waste, which has severe environmental consequences. To reduce plastic waste, consumers can opt for eco-friendly shampoo alternatives, such as:
Shampoo Bars
Shampoo bars are solid-form cleansers that offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional liquid shampoos. They are plastic-free, require minimal or no packaging, and are travel-friendly. Nature Bar, for instance, offers 100% plastic-free shampoo bars made with natural and biodegradable ingredients.
Refillable Shampoo and Conditioners
Refillable shampoo and conditioner sets are another eco-friendly option. These products are designed for the circular economy, aiming to reduce waste. Consumers can buy natural, silicone-free products in "forever bottles" or recyclable aluminium bottles. Once finished, the containers are sent back to the manufacturer to be cleaned, sanitized, and refilled. Plaine Products, for instance, offers refillable shampoo and conditioner sets in recyclable aluminium bottles.
Zero-Waste Dry Shampoo
For those who prefer to wash their hair less frequently, zero-waste dry shampoo is an option. KatieMae Naturals, for example, offers a dry shampoo in a reusable glass container. Their product is made with natural ingredients such as arrowroot powder, kaolin clay, organic cocoa powder, and essential oils.
Plastic-Reducing Shampoo Bottles
While not entirely plastic-free, some brands offer shampoo bottles that use significantly less plastic. Seed Phytonutrients, for instance, offers a shampoo with eco-friendly packaging. The bottle has a paper outer, which can be composted, and a plastic inner liner that can be recycled.
Natural Shampoos
Some natural shampoos, free from harsh chemicals, can also be a more eco-friendly option. For example, Sienna Naturals offers an award-winning H.A.P.I. Shampoo, a foaming cleanser that delivers moisture and helps detangle and restore natural curl patterns. Similarly, Ursa Major's "Go Easy" shampoo is suitable for all hair types, removing product buildup while being gentle on fine hair.
To identify if a product contains microplastics, consumers can use apps such as "Beat the Microbead" or look for common plastic ingredients like polyethylene (PE) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). By choosing plastic-free and eco-friendly alternatives, consumers can reduce their plastic waste and contribute to a greener lifestyle.
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Identifying microplastics in shampoo
Plastic in shampoo refers not only to the plastic bottles they are sold in but also to the microplastics found in the product itself. These microplastics are commonly referred to as 'microbeads' and are added to a variety of cosmetic products, including shampoo, scrubs, cleansing balms, moisturisers, makeup, and hair spray.
The presence of microplastics in the marine environment is a rapidly increasing concern, as they are not biodegradable and can be ingested by marine life, potentially ending up in our food chain. Therefore, it is important to identify and avoid products containing microplastics.
To identify microplastics in shampoo, you can follow these steps:
- Research the brand and ingredients: Take the time to read the ingredient list on the product and research the brand. Look for common plastic ingredients such as polyethylene (PE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), nylon, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polypropylene (PP).
- Use the Beat the Microbead app: Scan the product with the Beat the Microbead app, which can help identify if a product contains microplastics.
- Look for certifications: Some brands carry the Zero Plastic Inside certification logo, indicating that their products are free of microplastic ingredients.
- Choose natural and biodegradable alternatives: Opt for cosmetics made with natural and biodegradable ingredients, such as shampoo bars, which are often 100% plastic-free.
- Check for long-term impacts: Some synthetic ingredients in cosmetics, like Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) found in hair sprays, can be harmful when heated with styling tools, as they can be inhaled and potentially damage the lungs.
- Support eco-friendly options: Choose refillable shampoo and conditioner options or solid shampoo and conditioner bars that require little to no plastic packaging.
By following these steps, you can make informed choices and avoid purchasing shampoo or cosmetic products that contain microplastics.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, many shampoos contain plastic, commonly referred to as 'microbeads'. These microplastics are not biodegradable and contribute to pollution when they enter oceans and water streams.
You can scan the product with the 'Beat the Microbead' app or look for common plastic ingredients such as polyethylene (PE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), nylon, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polypropylene (PP).
Plastic is added to shampoo to add exfoliating properties, create a glossy appearance, and as fillers to bulk out products.
Yes, there are many plastic-free shampoo options available, including shampoo bars, powder dry shampoos, and liquid shampoos packaged in metal containers or cardboard boxes.
Some plastic-free shampoo brands include Ethique, Yas Alpaca, Nature Bar, and By Humankind.
