Polyethylene Terephthalate

Polyethylene Terephthalate is the plastic film cut into tiny flecks that makes up most cosmetic glitter, used purely for sparkle in eyeshadow, highlighter, and nail products. The dermal safety data on PET itself is unremarkable, but the EU has classified this kind of non biodegradable plastic glitter as an intentionally added microplastic and is phasing out its sale in cosmetics on a schedule running from 2027 for rinse off products through 2035 for makeup, lip, and nail products, so the concern here is environmental persistence rather than a skin reaction.

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.