# Biodegradable Microbeads Cosmetic brands are launching alternatives to plastic microbeads. By [Grace Mahas](https://www.trendhunter.com/Grace.Mahas), VP of Content & Insights | Published Sep 4, 2020 | Category: [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/style-and-fashion-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/biodegradable-microbeads ## Key Figures - Trend score: 2.3/10 - Evidence articles: 4 ## What is the Biodegradable Microbeads trend? **Biodegradable Microbeads:** Microbeads have been banned in many countries due to their negative environmental effects, specifically since they adsorb toxins and transfer them up the marine food chain. As a result, brands in the cosmetic space have launched a variety of biodegradable alternatives made from renewable resources like jojoba beads. ## The consumer insight behind the Biodegradable Microbeads trend The fight against climate change has increased in recent years as scientists from around the world join forces to warn society and pressure politicians. As a result, consumers are increasingly aware of the dangers that their everyday products present. To combat these eco-anxieties, consumers seek products that highlight their sustainability, specifically as it relates to high-profile products that have been deemed as "dangerous" by scientists and activists. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 4 featured examples - Articles from: May 14, 2018 to Sep 4, 2020 - Published: Sep 4, 2020 - Patterns: [Cyclicality](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/cyclicality) - Megatrends: [Naturality](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/naturality) ## Audience - Gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Themes within the Biodegradable Microbeads trend ### Emergence of Biodegradable Alternatives As microbeads are banned in many countries, the cosmetic industry introduced biodegradable alternatives made from renewable resources paving the way for sustainable cosmetic solutions. ### Powder-to-Foam Formula The use of powder-to-foam formulas in skincare products is a trend and a unique solution in purifying the skin and keep it protected from irritants like pollution. ### Cellulose Microbeads The use of cellulose microbeads in cosmetics is a definite trend to meet the increasing demand for eco-friendly products and a call to protect wildlife and humanity. ## What the Biodegradable Microbeads trend means for industry ### For Cosmetic Manufacturing In the cosmetic industry, a trend presents opportunities to manufacture sustainable cosmetic solutions for consumers concerned about the dangers of everyday products. ### For Skincare Products The skincare industry has opportunities to incorporate powder-to-foam formulas into their product range for consumers looking to maintain healthy and protected skin from everyday pollution. ### For Renewable Resource Manufacturing The trend towards biodegradable materials by cosmetic manufacturers presents an opportunity for renewable resource manufacturing to supply natural alternatives to plastic microbead production. ## Workshop question How can your brand better meet the expectations of eco-friendly consumers? ## Trend signals for Biodegradable Microbeads Trend score 2.3 out of 10, from popularity 31%, activity 30%, freshness 9%. - Popularity: 31% - Activity: 30% - Freshness: 9% ## Examples of the Biodegradable Microbeads trend 4 featured examples from May 14, 2018 to Sep 4, 2020. - [Micronized Biodegradable Polymer Fillers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ecofil): The ECOFIL from ECKAR is Made from Renewable Resources (Category: Eco) Implication: The beauty industry can incorporate ECOFIL-like biodegradable fillers and agents to cater to consumers' growing demand for eco-friendly and all-natural cosmetic ingredients. - [Powder-to-Foam Exfoliators](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/powder-to-foam): My Clarins' RE-MOVE Formula Creates a Light Lather with Water (Category: Fashion) Implication: The skincare industry could benefit from developing more gentle, plant-based, and multifunctional products. - [Biodegradable Face Exfoliants](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/naturbeads-ltd): Naturbeads Ltd is a New Eco-friendly Microbead Manufacture (Category: Eco) Implication: The cosmetics industry can capitalize on the demand for eco-friendly products by adopting biodegradable alternatives, such as Naturbeats' cellulose microbeads. - [Detoxifying Algae Masks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/black-algae-flash-mask): Osea's Black Algae Flash Mask Detoxifies, Brightens and Exfoliates (Category: Fashion) Implication: Natural, sustainable and eco-friendly beauty products are gaining traction in the industry, presenting opportunities for brands to offer innovative products for conscious and ethi… ## Recent trend clusters - [Scaled Restraint](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/small-luxury-watches) (Fashion) - [Sneaker Theater](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sneaker-theater) (Fashion) - [Ritual Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/ritual-systems) (Fashion) - [Athletic Styling](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/athletic-styling) (Fashion) ## Trending in Fashion - [Paisley-Shelled Collector Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/paisley-shelled-collector-sneakers) - [Fruit-Inspired Digital Watches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/themed-wristwatches) - [Deluxe Beauty Advent Calendars](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/classic-and-prestige) - [Modular Winter Wardrobes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moose-knuckles-fallwinter-2026) All articles: [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion)