Microplastics

Microplastics are small plastic particles in the environment. While there is some contention over their size, the U.S. National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration classifies microplastics as less than 5 mm in diameter.They come from a variety of sources, including cosmetics, clothing, and industrial processes.Two classifications of microplastics currently exist: primary microplastics are manufactured and are a direct result of human material and product use, and secondary microplastics are microscopic plastic fragments derived from the breakdown of larger plastic debris like the macroscopic parts that make up the bulk of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
Microbeads are a type of microplastic that are sometimes found in toothpastes.Microbeads have emerged as a new form of threat. First patented in 1972 for use in cleansers.
Due to abrasive nature, microbeads began to replace natural material like ground almonds, oatmeal and sea salt in the area of cosmetics, e.g. as exfoliating agents in facewash or in toothpaste.