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Ingredient deep-dive

Hyaluronic Acid: Is It a Microplastic?

Not a microplasticCleared / not a microplastic

Not a microplastic. A polysaccharide your own body produces, made commercially by bacterial fermentation. It is a polymer in the technical sense and entirely biological.

Where it appears

  • Hydrating serums
  • Moisturisers
  • Sheet masks
  • Eye creams

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted; biopolymer.

United States

Permitted.

Cleaner alternatives

  • No swap needed

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Hyaluronic Acid, common questions

Is Hyaluronic Acid a microplastic?

Borderline. Not a microplastic. A polysaccharide your own body produces, made commercially by bacterial fermentation. It is a polymer in the technical sense and entirely biological.

Is Hyaluronic Acid banned?

EU: Permitted; biopolymer. US: Permitted.

What can I use instead of Hyaluronic Acid?

Cleaner alternatives include: No swap needed.

What products contain Hyaluronic Acid?

Commonly found in: Hydrating serums; Moisturisers; Sheet masks; Eye creams.

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