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Ingredient deep-dive

Mica: Is It a Microplastic?

Not a microplasticCleared / not a microplastic

Not a microplastic. Mica is a naturally occurring mineral and the standard non-plastic alternative to polyester glitter. Its genuine issue is ethical rather than chemical: mica mining has documented child-labour problems, so look for responsibly sourced or synthetic fluorphlogopite.

Where it appears

  • Shimmer and highlighter
  • Eyeshadow
  • Non-plastic glitter
  • Pressed powders

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted; a mineral, outside the microplastics restriction.

United States

Permitted.

Cleaner alternatives

  • Synthetic fluorphlogopite (lab-grown mica) for ethical sourcing

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Mica, common questions

Is Mica a microplastic?

Borderline. Not a microplastic. Mica is a naturally occurring mineral and the standard non-plastic alternative to polyester glitter. Its genuine issue is ethical rather than chemical: mica mining has documented child-labour problems, so look for responsibly sourced or synthetic fluorphlogopite.

Is Mica banned?

EU: Permitted; a mineral, outside the microplastics restriction. US: Permitted.

What can I use instead of Mica?

Cleaner alternatives include: Synthetic fluorphlogopite (lab-grown mica) for ethical sourcing.

What products contain Mica?

Commonly found in: Shimmer and highlighter; Eyeshadow; Non-plastic glitter; Pressed powders.

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