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Ingredient deep-dive

Jojoba Esters (Jojoba Beads): Is It a Microplastic?

Not a microplasticCleared / not a microplastic

Not a microplastic, and the single best-known replacement for polyethylene microbeads. Naturally derived wax esters formed into soft spheres that exfoliate and then melt on the skin rather than washing into waterways.

Where it appears

  • Facial scrubs
  • Body exfoliants
  • Cleansing balms

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted; naturally derived and biodegradable.

United States

Permitted.

Cleaner alternatives

  • No swap needed — this is the swap

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Jojoba Esters (Jojoba Beads), common questions

Is Jojoba Esters (Jojoba Beads) a microplastic?

Borderline. Not a microplastic, and the single best-known replacement for polyethylene microbeads. Naturally derived wax esters formed into soft spheres that exfoliate and then melt on the skin rather than washing into waterways.

Is Jojoba Esters (Jojoba Beads) banned?

EU: Permitted; naturally derived and biodegradable. US: Permitted.

What can I use instead of Jojoba Esters (Jojoba Beads)?

Cleaner alternatives include: No swap needed — this is the swap.

What products contain Jojoba Esters (Jojoba Beads)?

Commonly found in: Facial scrubs; Body exfoliants; Cleansing balms.

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