Biodegradable Glitter - it's not just for kids

Is biodegradable glitter a reality? Microplastics are a big issue in the ocean with large chunks of plastic waste in the ocean breaking down in to smaller pieces and being consumed by fish and then by humans. It's also an issue with man made fabrics being washed in washing machines with the microplastic waste going down the drain and then in to water ways. Another issue, even though it's a much smaller one by comparison, is the use of glitter. As far as a solution to the issue, this last one, plastic glitter, is actually very simple to fix.

Biodegradable glitter is becoming more readily available in Australia, and it's a quick and simple swap out from the plastic glitter that you buy in a craft store. With glitter, as you know, a little bit goes a long long way. Bioglitter comes backed in little glass jars, not plastic pouches, so it's easy to get out and easy to reseal. Bioglitter isn't just an addition to your kids makeup either, it can be used for craft projects, mixed with playdough, placed on top of nail polish with a clear coating over the top and even used for adults with cosmetic application. You don't need to glue it on your face, just use your favourite untinted lip balm.

What is The Glitter Tribe's Bioglitter made from?

It's made from cellulose from eucalyptus trees from certified plantations and environmentally sourced wood pulp.

Does it biodegrade?

Yes it does. It's Certified OK Biodegradable by TUV. The specs of this mean it's guaranteed to biodegrade in a natural freshwater environment. To do this, it needs heat, water and oxygen to break down. It also meets the standards for home composting. On average, depending on conditions, it should break down in approx 90 days.

Does it dissolve in water?

Fresh water, no. Sea water, yes.

How long will it last before it breaks down?

Stored in the glass jar, it hsa a long and stable life. It will only start biodegrading when given heat, water and oxygen.

What is the best way to apply loose glitter to your skin?

The biggest question we get asked about biodegradable glitter is how you get it to stick to your face. It's not like you're going to apply glue to your face and there is no adhesive properties on the glitter. That said, it's actually not that difficult to apply.

Find yourself a natural product that you can safely apply to your face that won't completely rub in. Something with a slightly sticky base like a natural lip balm that contains either beeswax or candelilla wax if you're a vegan. A natural lip balm is a good place to start. Funnily enough, the Olive & Bee Intimate Cream which is technically a lubricant, is a great multi-tasking balm and is perfect for the job. It's made from just 2 ingredients - olive oil and beeswax, and makes the perfect sticky base.

You could also use eyelash glue, but you then have to get it off, and we're not aware of a natural one. Hair gel, aloe vera gel and even coconut oil will work in a pinch, but the wax based creams will be your best option.

Once your balm is in place where you want to add your sparkle, use either a brush or your fingers to apply the glitter.

What's the best way to remove loose biodegradable glitter from your skin?

By the end of your day / night, we're hoping most of your glitter is still on your face or body. No doubt some of it has fallen off, and it is for this reason that the planet is happy you chose a biodegradable option and not plastic. While it will biodegrade in a fresh water environment, it won't just dissolve on impact with water, so it's nicest if you can do the right thing and brush as much of it off your face or body as you can and compost it. After that, use some castile soap or your regular face wash and wash off any remaining glitter.