Microplastics and Polymers in Toothpaste
How to identify microplastics in toothpaste and should you be concerned?
You're in the bathroom, pick up your toothpaste, and think: does this actually contain plastic?
That's not a strange question. In recent years, there has been a lot of attention on microplastics, but in toothpaste, it's a bit more nuanced than often thought.
In this article, I will clearly explain:
- what microplastics and polymers are
- how to identify them on an ingredient list (INCI)
- when it's relevant to pay attention to them
So you can make an informed choice yourself.
What are microplastics in toothpaste?
Microplastics are very small pieces of plastic (usually smaller than 5 mm).
In cosmetics, they were previously mainly used as scrub particles, think of the beads in facial scrubs.
They also occurred in toothpaste, but:
- they are now largely banned in Europe
- you rarely find them in toothpaste nowadays
But… that doesn't mean toothpaste is always "plastic-free".
What is a polymer (and why is it in toothpaste)?
A polymer is a long chain of molecules. This can be natural (like cellulose), but also synthetic. In the latter case, we are often talking about plastics.
In toothpaste, polymers are used for practical functions:
- ensuring the toothpaste remains a gel (structure)
- helping ingredients to distribute well
- leaving a thin layer on your teeth (e.g., for protection or whitening)
The latter is important:
Many modern toothpastes use synthetic polymers that, according to some definitions, fall under microplastics, even if you don't see them as particles.
The distinction that often causes confusion
There are roughly two types of "plastic" in toothpaste:
1. Visible microplastics (almost gone)
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polypropylene (PP)
These are the classic scrub particles.
You'll hardly find them anymore.
2. Soluble or gel-like polymers (still used)
- Acrylates Copolymer
- PVM/MA Copolymer
- Carbomer
- PEG (e.g., PEG-8)
- Poloxamer
You don't see these, but they are functionally similar (synthetic polymers).
How to identify microplastics in toothpaste?
The only reliable way is: read the ingredient list (INCI).
Look for these words:
If you encounter one of these, your toothpaste probably contains a synthetic polymer:
- Copolymer (e.g., PVM/MA Copolymer)
- Acrylates
- Carbomer
- PEG or PEG-XX
- Poloxamer
Simple rule of thumb:
Do you see a name ending in -polymer, -acrylate, or PEG?
Then it almost certainly contains a synthetic polymer.
Is it dangerous?
Nuance is important here.
For your health:
- Most of these substances are approved and tested within the EU
- They are used in small quantities in toothpaste
- There is no hard evidence that they are directly harmful with normal use
But:
- long-term effects of cumulative exposure are still under investigation
- some people choose to avoid them as a precaution
For the environment:
This is where the biggest concern lies.
- Synthetic polymers often do not degrade well in nature
- They can end up in water and soil via the sewer system
- They contribute to broader microplastic pollution
So even if the risk to yourself is limited, it can be ecologically relevant.
When is it relevant or not relevant to pay attention to them?
Relevant if you:
- are consciously engaged with sustainability
- want to keep ingredients as simple as possible
- want to avoid microplastics in a broader sense
Less relevant if you:
- primarily look at efficacy (e.g., sensitive teeth)
- and rely on existing safety standards
So there is no "right" or "wrong", but a trade-off.
Practical: how to make a better choice?
If you want to avoid polymers, pay attention to:
- short ingredient lists
- absence of the aforementioned terms
- alternatives such as:
- silica (cleaning agent)
- natural binders (like cellulose)
Tip: compare 2 toothpastes side-by-side; you'll often see the difference immediately. Rule of thumb: the shorter the ingredient list, the more likely it is that no polymers are present in your toothpaste.
Brief summary
- Microplastics in toothpaste nowadays mainly exist as invisible polymers
- They are used for structure and function
- You recognize them by names such as copolymer, acrylates, carbomer and PEG
- They are approved and not directly harmful, but environmental impact is a concern
- Whether you want to avoid them depends on your personal preference and values
Do you want to be sure your toothpaste is free of synthetic polymers?
Then choose a product with a short, transparent ingredient list like ReBloom Care, and always check the INCI yourself; that remains the most reliable method.
Frequently asked questions
1. Are there still plastic beads in toothpaste?
Hardly anymore. They are largely banned in Europe.
2. Is "PEG" the same as microplastic?
Not exactly, but it is a synthetic polymer and falls under liquid microplastics in some definitions.
3. Are natural toothpastes always free of polymers?
Often yes, but not always. Keep checking the ingredient list.
4. Why do brands still use these substances?
Because they are cheap, stable, and effective in formula and texture.
Also read the article about which ingredients you should preferably avoid in toothpaste
or Fluoride versus fluoride-free