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Ingredient deep-dive

Cellulose: Is It a Microplastic?

Not a microplasticCleared / not a microplastic

Not a microplastic. Cellulose is a plant polymer — the structural material of wood and cotton. It is a polymer, but not a synthetic one, and it biodegrades. Widely used as a plastic-bead replacement.

Where it appears

  • Exfoliant particles
  • Mascara fibres
  • Thickener
  • Loose powders

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted; natural polymers are explicitly exempt from the microplastics restriction.

United States

Permitted.

Cleaner alternatives

  • No swap needed

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Cellulose, common questions

Is Cellulose a microplastic?

Borderline. Not a microplastic. Cellulose is a plant polymer — the structural material of wood and cotton. It is a polymer, but not a synthetic one, and it biodegrades. Widely used as a plastic-bead replacement.

Is Cellulose banned?

EU: Permitted; natural polymers are explicitly exempt from the microplastics restriction. US: Permitted.

What can I use instead of Cellulose?

Cleaner alternatives include: No swap needed.

What products contain Cellulose?

Commonly found in: Exfoliant particles; Mascara fibres; Thickener; Loose powders.

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Mica

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