Ingredient deep-dive
Polyurethane: Is It a Microplastic?
Plastic polymer family — used as a film-former in long-wear makeup and hair products.
Where it appears
- Long-wear foundations and concealers
- Mascara (waterproof formulas)
- Hair gel and styling cream
- Nail polish
Regulatory status (2026)
European Union
Leave-on polyurethane is restricted with phased compliance through 2027 under EU 2023/2055.
United States
No federal restriction.
Cleaner alternatives
- Plant-derived shellac
- Beeswax as film-former
Use the app
Scan any product for Polyurethane in 5 seconds
The MicroPlastics iOS app flags this ingredient and 24 others instantly. Paste a label into the free web ingredient checker first if you want a no-install scan.
Download on the App StorePolyurethane — common questions
Is Polyurethane a microplastic?
Is Polyurethane banned?
What can I use instead of Polyurethane?
What products contain Polyurethane?
Related ingredients
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Microplastic polymer · High concern
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