EU Microplastic Ban: Navigating the Glitter Landscape and Cosmetic Filler Compliance

EU Microplastic Ban: Navigating the Glitter Landscape and Cosmetic Filler Compliance

Under REACH Regulation 2023/2055, the European Union's restriction on intentionally added microplastics has entered a critical enforcement phase. As of May 31, 2026, manufacturers and industrial users must submit their first annual reports to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), covering 2025 emissions data for synthetic polymer microparticles (SPM) in particle, flake, or powder form.

This restriction, formally listed as Entry 78 of Annex XVII to REACH, directly impacts cosmetic glitters, certain fillers, and effect pigments — categories where we have built core capabilities over the past two decades.

What This Means for Cosmetic Formulators

Cosmetic brands, glitter manufacturers, and formulators working within EU markets must now verify that their materials meet the regulatory definition of compliance. Conventional plastic-based glitters and certain synthetic polymer fillers fall under the scope of the ban. Reformulation is no longer optional — it is a compliance requirement.

Our technical team has been monitoring this regulatory development closely. We recognize that the transition requires not only compliant materials, but also technical support in reformulation, performance validation, and documentation.

Kolortek's Response: Biodegradable Glitters and Compliant Filler Systems

We have expanded our portfolio to include KT Biodegradable Glitters, designed to meet the performance expectations of decorative cosmetics while aligning with the EU microplastic restriction framework. These materials are suitable for use in eye shadows, face powders, nail products, and craft applications.

In parallel, our Cosmetic Fillers & Treated Pigments series — including surface-treated oxides, pearlescent pigments, and multicolor effect pigments — are formulated to cosmetic-grade standards and can serve as functional alternatives in formulations previously reliant on synthetic polymer-based fillers.

Key Product Categories Relevant to Compliance:

• KT Biodegradable Glitters: Compliant alternatives to conventional plastic glitters
• Cosmetic Fillers: Surface-treated powders for improved skin feel, oil absorption control, and texture enhancement
• Cosmetic Oxides: Iron oxides (yellow, red, black, brown), titanium dioxide, ultramarines, chromium green oxide, carbon black
• D&C Lakes: Color-stable, filtered for harmful impurities, suitable for regulated cosmetic use
• Cosmetic Pearl Multicolor Series: Shimmer and gloss effects for decorative personal care products
• Special Effect Pigments: Pearlescent and chameleon pigments designed for cosmetic applications

All materials are backed by MSDS, TDS, and COA documentation. We maintain certifications including ISO, REACH, SGS, TÜV SÜD, and Kosher, and work closely with universities and research institutes to support formulation development.

Technical Support and Reformulation Guidance

Compliance is not only about substitution — it requires understanding how alternative materials perform in existing formulations. Our technical team provides:

• Formulation guideline support tailored to specific product types (foundations, blushers, eye cosmetics, etc.)
• Custom color matching and duplication services
• Performance validation assistance for texture, dispersion, and stability
• Regulatory documentation aligned with EU cosmetic compliance requirements

We are currently supporting reformulation projects across Europe and North America, particularly in face powders, eye shadows, mascaras, and nail products where glitter and filler materials are commonly used.

What's Next

The first ECHA reporting deadline in May 2026 is a near-term milestone, but the broader regulatory trend is clear: synthetic polymer microparticles in cosmetics and personal care products are under sustained scrutiny. Companies that begin compliance work now will be better positioned to meet both current requirements and future regulatory developments.

At Kolortek, we continue to expand our biodegradable and compliant material offerings in response to this shift. Our R&D team remains focused on developing alternatives that meet both regulatory standards and application performance expectations.

For technical inquiries or compliance support, contact our team at contact@kolortek.com.

Reference:
ECHA Hot Topics – Microplastics: https://echa.europa.eu/hot-topics/microplastics