Microplastics: if we don't want to be eating them, we have to stop using them
With all you lovelies talking the talk and walking the walk of going plastic free, let’s not forget to deal with the ultimate nemesis of the planet: Microplastics. They might not be visible to the naked eye or even mentioned on the labels of beauty and personal care products, but trust us, they’re everywhere.
Very craftily termed as “Microbeads” they’re abundantly pumped in cosmetics, exfoliating cleansers, scrubs, body washes, toothpastes etc. - choking the planet and countless organisms with it. They might be scrubbing dirt, grime and dead skin cells off your body, but are wreaking havoc on human water supplies, marine life and the ecological equilibrium. And yes, they eventually find their way back to the food chain and chances are you're eating them too. Not to mention the whole other monstrosity of microplastics that are generated due to disintegration of plastic waste overtime.
We like to believe that change begins at home, so here are some effective skin and planet-friendly alternatives to microplastics in beauty & personal care.
Coconut Flakes
One of the gentlest, naturally-sourced exfoliants, Coconut Flakes gently buff away dry and dull skin, leaving behind a soft sheen with a delicate nutty aroma. They’re an absolute wonder for exfoliating sensitive skin - softening and nourishing the surface while balancing pH levels - imparting a youthful radiance throughout! This is physical exfoliation at its best.
Raw Cane Sugar
The mother of ‘em all natural exfoliants, Raw Cane Sugar is a rich source of glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that deeply penetrates into the skin to boost cell turnover. It repairs damage caused by aging and environmental stress to rejuvenate and gently exfoliate the skin, all while locking in moisture to unveil a healthy and refreshing glow.
Activated Charcoal
This one’s an uber-natural cleanser that gently exfoliates, draws out toxins from the skin, unclogs pores and scrubs away dead skin cells in a second. It removes impurities and absorbs excess sebum to help reduce acne and breakouts. It’s powerful detox potential gives clear, blemish-free skin leading to a healthier, clearer complexion.
Ground Coffee
Coffee Grounds are a miraculous exfoliator that scrub off that dead skin-cell build-up while working on cellulite and stretch marks. Being antioxidant rich, they help eliminate free radicals and repair the damage caused by environmental stress to give you healthy skin throughout. They’re as refreshing and rejuvenating for your skin as is a cup of coffee in the mornings
Final Say:
Like always, there is simply nothing better than nature’s treasures nurturing your skin, especially when put against vile plastic counterparts. While many of these alternatives have been used for decades prior to the introduction of plastic substitutes, plastic has now infiltrated our lives more than we ever imagined or meant for it to do. But we believe we can dial back to our roots, little by little everyday. It’s time we usher in the good and ditch the nasties for our health and the planet's.