Are microbeads bad for your looks?

It’s the big question: are microbeads bad for your looks?

Microbeads – miniscule plastic balls – are a popular ingredient in many cosmetic products, including face scrubs, toothpastes and shower gels. Once washed down the drain, they pollute our oceans and fish are mistaking them for food and eating them.

But microbeads not only cause harm to the environment, but also to your looks too. Dr Martin Wade, dermatologist at London Skin and Hair Clinic, explains how these teeny little balls might not be as beneficial to our skin as we had once thought. WHL digs a little deeper…

Potential skin damage

Exfoliating has been an ongoing beauty trend throughout decades, one that promises to leave skin extra clean and radiant as it removes dead skin cells – resulting in a smoother surface. Even though exfoliation plays an important part in your skincare routine, remember that the skin’s surface is very fragile and sensitive to harsh substances like microbeads. Most facial and body scrubs use microbeads because they are cheaper to produce than other exfoliators, but they can create small tears in your skin – leaving it vulnerable to bacteria.

Dr Martin Wade recommends finding products that don’t contain microbeads because when you use ones that do: ‘you are essentially rubbing your face with plastic – the same plastic used to make milk bottles and household contains.’ He recommends that you are delicate with your skin and instead opt for: ‘natural alternatives such as oatmeal and salt, which are better physical exfoliators.’

Tooth trauma

Take a look at your bathroom lotions and potions and you may be surprised by how many personal care products contain microbeads. Some toothpastes use microbeads to add texture and colour, but this could trap bacteria and potentially lead to many mouth diseases, such as gingivitis and even periodontal disease if the infection moves to the bone. You wouldn’t use a toothbrush that’s really hard on your gums and causes enamel to wear away, so why opt for a toothpaste that does this?

So there you go. It’s time to ban the bead!