Ingredient deep-dive

Polyimide-1: Is It a Microplastic?

Medium concernMicroplastic polymer

High-performance synthetic polymer used as a film-former in long-wear mascara and liner for smudge resistance.

Where it appears

Tubing mascara
Long-wear eyeliner
Brow gels

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted as a film-former.

United States

No federal restriction.

Cleaner alternatives

Shellac-based tubing mascara
Cellulose film-formers

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Polyimide-1, common questions

Is Polyimide-1 a microplastic?

Yes: it is classified as a synthetic polymer. High-performance synthetic polymer used as a film-former in long-wear mascara and liner for smudge resistance.

Is Polyimide-1 banned?

EU: Permitted as a film-former. US: No federal restriction.

What can I use instead of Polyimide-1?

Cleaner alternatives include: Shellac-based tubing mascara; Cellulose film-formers.

What products contain Polyimide-1?

Commonly found in: Tubing mascara; Long-wear eyeliner; Brow gels.

Related ingredients

Polyethylene

Microplastic polymer · High concern

Solid plastic polymer. The EU restricted intentionally added microplastics in rinse-off cosmetics from October 2023, including polyethylene microbeads.

Polypropylene

Microplastic polymer · High concern

Solid plastic polymer, often used in scrubs, mascara fibers, and exfoliants.

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

Microplastic polymer · High concern

The same plastic used in bottles, here as glitter or shimmer in cosmetics.

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)

Microplastic polymer · High concern

Solid acrylic plastic used as a microbead filler. Banned in EU rinse-off products since 2023.