What is biodegradable glitter?
The ingredients used to manufacture Biodegradable glitter are different to those used for mainstream glitter. But, don’t worry, they still work their sparkle in the same way! Biodegradable glitter uses more natural ingredients such as lentils to cellulose, and the latter is what we use for our new range. This way, it is easier for them to break down in the environment.
What is Cellulose?
Cellulose is made from the cell walls that make up the natural structure in plants such as Eucalyptus trees. This is a great alternative if you wish to be more eco-friendly, as they are compostable too.
How is biodegradable glitter made?
As previously mentioned, biodegradable glitter is made using natural ingredients. Essentially, it all starts with Cellulose which is taken from the Eucalyptus trees. It’s then dyed and covered with a durable coating, sometimes aluminium, to give it that brilliant shine. Lastly, it’s cut into all sorts of shapes and sizes to make spectacular cosmetic glitter.
Are there toxic chemicals which would harm the environment?
No way, As biodegradable glitter is made from natural materials, the ingredients to make it shiny are non-toxic as well to comply with regulations. There is only a maximum of 0.1% aluminium used in the products to make it shiny. So, you do not need to worry about the metal content. This is perfectly safe!
Just how much better is it for the planet?
Sadly, traditional glitter has been condemned by environmentalists for its detrimental impact on the planet. Plastic glitter comes under the umbrella term of ‘microplastics’, tiny pieces of plastic that are polluting the ocean. This can harm marine life and the wider food chain, infecting our oceans with awful consequences. They may take hundreds of years to finally decompose, leaving a permanent mark on our planet. However, things are looking up.
We know by now that biodegradable glitter is better for our products and the environment, but what does this mean? Well, biodegradable glitter will be broken down by little micro-organisms in the soil and ocean over a period of just a few months. So, there’s no need to worry about it damaging the environment in years to come. This is excellent news for glitter lovers everywhere!
How do you store biodegradable glitter?
The exact way as normal glitter. Many people do worry about how to store it, with concerns that it may not be as hard-wearing as conventional glitter. But actually, biodegradable glitter is a stable product, until it’s exposed to those microorganisms to break it down, that is.
Who else is behind the movement?
The government announced a ban in 2016 for microplastics in the UK. This means that companies that manufacture products such as face exfoliants, toothpastes and shower gels will all need to find an eco-friendly alternative to the tiny plastic beads. Moreover, it’s not just the government who are acting against microplastics, many other big organisations are backing the movement.
Now you know all about the wonderful product that is biodegradable glitter. Hopefully, this guide has cleared up any concerns you have and leaves you fully equipped for answering the question of – what is biodegradable glitter?
Here’s a bonus fact: our biodegradable glitter is vegan too! So, no animals were harmed at all in the process. For more information on our amazing glitter soy wax snap bars, don’t hesitate to get in touch and contact us.