Bad Things Come in Small Packages

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. - July 16, 2014 - PRLog -- Polyethylene? A common ingredient in toothpaste, chewing gum and face wash? Hard to believe, but true.

Controversy is growing over ‘microbeads’, the tiny microplastics blended into personal care and food products.

Smaller than 1mm, these tiny plastic beads are used in many popular toothpastes as a mild abrasive and in chewing gums for esthetic appeal.

These beads have been approved by the FDA even though there is no peer-reviewed research that measures their effect on human health.

Beverly Hills Dentist, Dr. Kyle Stanley explains, “We’ve seen a significant increase in patients with buildup of microbeads embedded in their gums. This is very concerning because any foreign objects lodged in the gum line could lead to gingival inflammation and infection.”

Dr. Matthew Nejad adds, “While little is known for certain, it is clear that microbeads are unnecessary for an effective toothpaste product. Alternatives are equally, if not more effective, than microbeads for their purpose as a mild abrasive to remove plaque and leave teeth clean.”

As for personal care products, oatmeal and rice were commonly used as exfoliates in face wash products, until replaced by more cost-effective microbeads.²

Beverly Hills skincare expert, Gina Mari, explains “Poorly made skincare products containing plastic beads for exfoliation are harmful to our bodies and the environment. We recommend products made with natural ingredients like jojoba or oatmeal instead.” She continues: “Organic ingredients are beneficial to the skin and pose no risk if ingested by sea life.”

Plastic has long been recognized as a pollutant, but now professionals are aware that the microplastics have the same detrimental effect environmentally.²

According to The Marine Pollution Bulletin (2011) microbeads from toothpaste, skincare and food products are making their way into rivers and lakes, which small animals are mistaking for food. This poses a huge threat to their health and ecosystem, with small fish and animals facing the risk of digestive blockage and starvation.¹ Plastics have no redeeming benefits in any non-recyclable products. These environmental hazards and potential health risks greatly overwhelm any possible benefit.

There are now indications that things are changing. Illinois has officially banned microbeads in all cosmetic products and industry leader Proctor & Gamble confirms they will be microbead free by 2017. Hopefully this will set a precedent for other states and companies.

About Helm, Nejad and Stanley

Together, Doctors Helm, Nejad, and Stanley are the leading national practice for biomimetic dentistry, maintaining the 30 year tradition of excellence and prestige that continues to attract many Hollywood celebrities, Fortune 500 executives, and other notables from Los Angeles and across the country.


Peer-Reviewed Sources:

1. Fendall, Lisa S.& Sewell, Mary A.; (2009). Mary A., Contributing to marine pollution by washing your face: Microplastics in facial cleansers. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 58; 1225-1228.

2. Cole, M., Lindeque, P., Halsband, C., & Galloway, T.; (2011). MIcroplastics as contaminants in the marine environment: A review. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 62; 2588-2597.