The ASEAN Cosmetic Association following the recommendation from various Environmental or Health Agencies and Industry Associations around the World, recommends that the use of plastic microbeads be discontinued in rinse off personal care products.

Plastic microbeads are synthetic polymer solid beads ranging from 0.1 micron to 5 mm in size used for cleansing and exfoliating in rinse off personal care products like facial wash, body wash, toothpaste, etc.

While there is no safety concerns for end users, plastic microbeads used in cosmetic products may have an environmental impact. According to scientists this is small as the quantities used are small but as a matter of precaution and to prevent further impact the ASEAN Cosmetic Association would like to recommend the discontinuation of the use of plastic microbeads in rinse off personal care products.

Consumer health and safety is of paramount importance to the cosmetic industry. ACA Scientific and Technical Affairs group has evaluated the scientific data available and concluded that the use of plastic microbeads does not raise any human safety concern.

The ASEAN Cosmetic Association is taking a proactive stance in order to protect our environment and especially the water ways.