Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 bans intentionally added synthetic polymer microparticles (“microplastics”) in products sold in the EU, with phase-out dates from 2027 for rinse-off cosmetics to 2035 for make-up. Many encapsulated ingredients are affected; plant-based, microplastic-free capsules are the replacement.
Key dates for cosmetics
Product category
Ban applies from
Microbeads (exfoliating plastic particles)
17 October 2023
Rinse-off cosmetics
17 October 2027
Leave-on cosmetics (except lip, nail, make-up)
17 October 2029
Microplastics used to encapsulate fragrance
17 October 2029
Lip, nail and make-up products
17 October 2035 (labelling required from 2031)
What counts as a microplastic
Solid synthetic polymer particles smaller than 5 mm, intentionally added at 0.01% or more. Natural polymers that are not chemically modified are outside the definition. Polymers shown to be biodegradable under the regulation’s tests, or water-soluble, can also be excluded.
What it means for encapsulated ingredients
Many classic microcapsule shells (melamine-formaldehyde, polyurea, polyacrylates, PMMA) are synthetic polymers in scope. Brands selling in the EU need to reformulate before the relevant deadline or document an exemption.
Microplastic-free alternatives
Plant-based cellulose shells (Tagra’s CelluCaps platform)
Proteins, alginate, chitosan, starches and waxes
Water-soluble complexes such as Tagra’s WS range
Reformulation checklist
List every ingredient that contains polymer particles, including encapsulated actives, fragrance capsules, glitter and film formers.
Ask each supplier for a written statement on status under Regulation 2023/2055.
Prioritise rinse-off products (2027) and fragrance capsules (2029).
Run stability and sensory tests on replacements early: reformulation takes 12–24 months.
FAQ
When does the EU microplastics ban start for cosmetics?
For rinse-off products on 17 October 2027, leave-on products on 17 October 2029, make-up, lip and nail products on 17 October 2035.
Are Tagra’s microcapsules affected?
Tagra’s plant-based cellulose microcapsules are microplastic-free. Regulatory documentation is available for each grade.