bananapeel

Polyethylene

POLYETHYLENE

Data confidence:High
Microplastic

A synthetic polymer that can persist in the environment and accumulate in ecosystems.

Function

Film Former, Bulking Agent, Abrasive

EWG Safety Score

3/10Moderate concern

About this ingredient

Polyethylene is the most widely produced plastic in the world. In cosmetics it acts as a film former, thickener, and texture agent, and it was historically the plastic used for exfoliating microbeads before those were banned in rinse-off products. Because it is a solid synthetic polymer that does not biodegrade, it is classed as a microplastic: it appears on the Beat the Microbead RED list and falls under the EU's restriction on intentionally added microplastics in cosmetics. In sunscreen it is used to improve water resistance and lend a smoother, more even finish.

Found in 2+ sunscreens