6 Non Toxic Mascara without PFAS and Microplastics
For many of us, mascara is a staple in our makeup bags. But did you know that most conventional mascaras contain ingredients that are harmful to your health and the planet?
Two of the biggest concerns in today’s beauty products are microplastics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also named PFAS, which are added to create that smooth, flexible, “buildable” texture. But the problem is, these tiny particles never break down. Once you know how common these ingredients are and what they do, it becomes much easier to make safer, more sustainable choices.
The good news is, safer, cleaner alternatives do exist, and switching to a non-toxic mascara in zero waste packaging, or almost!, is one of the simplest changes you can make for healthier beauty and a healthier planet.
The Hidden Problem with Microplastics in Mascara
Microplastics aren’t shed just from the packaging, they’re often in the formula themselves. These tiny plastic particles are added to help mascaras feel creamier, glide on better, and build volume without clumps. But here’s the issue, unlike natural ingredients, microplastics don’t biodegrade. Every time you wash off your makeup, they shed down the drain and end up in ecosystems.
Plus, have you ever noticed puffy eyes, and a burning sensation after removing the make-up in your eyes? Well, now you know where this comes from…
A 2024 study published in “ChemSusChem” Chemistry-Sustainability-Energy-Materials by Chemistry Europe (1) by found that microplastics from personal care products, including mascara, can infiltrate entire eco-systems, animals and even human organs.
Source: ChemSusChem. 2024 Sep 24
Related: Why You Should Switch to Plastic Free Skincare Brands
What are PFAS and Why Are They In Mascara?
A study by the Notre Dame University in 2021 (2) found a widespread use of PFAS in cosmetic products across Canada and the USA. PFAS are a group of synthetic compounds designed to resist water, heat, and oil. This is why they are added to mascara to become smudge-proof, waterproof, and long-wearing. While those features sound appealing, PFAS have been linked to health concerns involving hormonal balance, the immune system, certain cancers, diabetes, obesity, and endocrine disruption (3).
What makes PFAS even trickier is that they don’t always appear clearly on ingredient lists. They’re often hidden behind names such as PTFE or fluoropolymers, making them nearly impossible for the average shopper to identify. If you’ve ever struggled to remove a mascara that refused to budge, it may have contained PFAS.
How do I Know If My Mascara Contains PFAS / Forever Chemicals?
To spot PFAS / forever chemicals, become familiar with reading the labels and ingredient list of cosmetics and check for words that include acronyms like polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), or “fluoro” or “perfluoro” for example:
- pentafluoropropane
- ethyl perfluoro isobutyil ether,
- PEG-8 trifluoropropyl dimethicone copolymer
- perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene
- etc etc.
On the FDA website, you can find a more comprehensive list of Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Cosmetics (4).
Please note that PFAS / forever chemicals are not always explicitly listed in the ingredient list of cosmetics and make-up products, this makes it more difficult to verify products. We were able to find a list of cosmetics that include or included PTFE in their ingredients through the online cosmetic database INCIdecoder.
How do I know If My Mascara Contains Microplastics?
To check if your cosmetics, including mascara, have microplastics in their ingredients, consult the database by Beat the Microbead (5) by the Plastic Soup Foundation. It is the most thorough database we have come across regarding microplastics in beauty products, and we consult it regularly to take decisions about the products we recommend. They even created an App, which makes it easier to test products while in department stores or other shops. We have also used this database in this article.
Start by avoiding ingredients that contain “poly”, for example:
- Polyethylene (PE)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Acrylates Copolymer
- Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)
- etc. etc.
Download the app, and keep it handy for when you need it.
Related: 6 Plastic Free Makeup Brands Creating Zero Waste Cosmetics without Microplastics
6 Natural and Non-Toxic Mascara Brands That Don’t Have PFAS
At I’m Plastic Free we help you eliminate the issue at the source. For all the reasons outlined above, we provide our readers with alternative solutions that are non-toxic, low waste, do not release microplastics.
This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. This helps us continue the hard work we put into researching products and solutions.
Please Note: Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health. Please read our disclaimer.
1. ATTITUDE Oceanly Serum Infused Mascara with 97,8% Natural Origin Ingredients
Attitude’s Oceanly line is designed for people who want high-performing makeup, but without the questionable ingredients and unnecessary waste. Their mascara is made with clean +97,8% ingredients of natural origin such as Tahitian microalgae to increase lash density, a blend of flower oils omega-6-rich which revitalizes them, and castor oil for its nourishing side. All of these are EWG-verified ingredients and avoid the usual fillers, PFAS, and polymers found in mainstream products. The formula is clean, and it proves that performance makeup doesn’t need to rely on microplastics.
Colors: Black, brown, blue
Made in: Canada
Microplastics ingredients: The Beat The Microbead App scanned all 37 ingredients and found no plastic in them!
PFAS ingredients: none listed
Packaging: The main tube is made of sustainable bamboo, the inner tube and wand is plastic though! The outer box made from FSC-certified cardboard sourced from responsibly managed forests, which is fully recyclable.
Related: 3 Microplastic Free Toothbrushes Made with Bamboo and Natural Bristles
2. River Organics Vegan, Zero Waste Mascara
This mascara is a dream for people with sensitive eyes or minimalists who want something basic and clean. Their mascara is made with nourishing ingredients like plant oils and mineral pigments, so it feels more like a conditioning treatment than a harsh cosmetic. What makes it truly stand out is the packaging, instead of the usual plastic tube, River Organics uses a fully compostable paper design.
Colors: black
Microplastic ingredients: The Beat The Microbead App scanned all 10 ingredients and found no plastic in them!
PFAS ingredients: none
Made in: North Carolina, USA
Packaging: home compostable cardboard tub.
Related: 12 Plastic Free Shampoo Brands You Can Feel Good About Using
3. Scoop Whole Beauty Plastic Free Mud Cake Mascara, Plastic-free Eyeliner, and Brow Serum (3-in-1 Multipurpose)
We finally switched to this mascara after finishing the one we had, and we wish we had done this sooner! Scoop Whole Beauty makes a truly zero waste mascara with no PFAS, or fragrance. It’s a refillable mineral and plant oil mascara that volumises eye lashes, defines eyes, shapes brows and can be used also to cover white hair!, all in one compact product, which is perfect for sensitive eyes. It’s 100% palm oil free.
Colors: Black, brown, blue, grey
Made in: Australia
Microplastic ingredients: We spotted 1 ingredient on their list that is considered “microplastics” by the Beat the Microbead platform: VP/VA copolymer. While it is a synthetic polymer, it’s also water-soluble and biodegradable, unlike traditional microplastics (like polyethylene) found in exfoliating scrubs.
PFAS ingredients: none
Packaging: Sustainable forever bamboo case. Once the mascara is finished, you can order refillable mud cake mascara separately. The refills fit perfectly through little magnets.
Our Tip: We currently use this product and we love it! We never used a mud cake mascara before and it was a bit of a learning curve… we learnt that having good water on the wand helps truly dissolve the product and not create flakes. After using this product, the eyes are not puffy and burning any longer when removing the make up.
Related: What is Plastic Doing in my Shampoo?
4. Elate Essential Water Resistant Mascara
Elate’s formula is vegan, cruelty-free, and made without petroleum-derived ingredients or synthetic polymers, making it a safer alternative for those concerned about microplastics or forever chemicals. Elate’s mascaras are especially loved by people who want a natural, everyday look and be gentle on the lashes.
Colors: Black, brown
Made in: Canada
Microplastic ingredients: The Beat The Microbead App scanned all 12 ingredients and found no plastic in them!
PFAS ingredients: none listed
Packaging: The Essential mascara comes in a recyclable and refillable and recyclable glass vial water-treated bamboo lid to further reduce the amount of plastic in their packaging. The outer packaging is cardboard. The refill comes without the mascara wand, which you’re meant to keep, sanitise, and reuse.
Related: 10 Best Toothpaste Without Plastic and BPA
5. Plant Shadow Mascara, Zero Waste Botanical Vegan Makeup Paint by plantmakeup
The Plant Shadow Mascara by plantmakeup is made in small batches with whole ingredients like plant butters, clays, and herbs, no synthetic chemicals, no PFAS, and no hidden plastic-based binders. It’s stored in minimal, eco-friendly packaging and has a very natural finish that’s perfect for people who react to conventional formulas or who simply prefer a subtle look. What customers appreciate is the transparency: you can actually recognise every ingredient on the label. If you want a mascara that’s as close to nature as possible, this is a wonderful option.
Colors: Black, brown
Made in: Massachusets, USA
Microplastic ingredients: The Beat The Microbead App scanned all 9 ingredients and found no plastic in them!
PFAS ingredients: none
Packaging: Recyclable glass vial with a reusable bamboo makeup wand.
Storage tips: Because Plant Shadow Mascara is formulated with aloe vera gel, it’s best to store it in the fridge when you’re not using it. Keep the tube tightly closed and away from direct sunlight to prevent the formula from drying out, as it contains only natural ingredients. After each application, wipe the twist-top opening before replacing the wand to help avoid buildup or flaking.
Related: 10 Plastic Free Sunscreen Brands for a Healthier You and Ocean
6. Izzy Zero Waste, Refillable Mascara (Reusable, Recyclable, Closed Loop)
Izzy takes circular beauty to a whole new level. Each tube is returned, cleaned, sterilised, and refilled, so waste is almost nonexistent. The formula itself is intentionally clean and free from PFAS, or harsh chemicals, making it a safer option for daily wear. It is EWG verified.
Colors: Black
Made in: USA
Microplastic ingredients: We spotted 2 ingredients out of 20 on their list that are considered “microplastics” by the Beat the Microbead platform: VP/eicosene copolymer, styrene/acrylates copolymer.
PFAS ingredients: none
Packaging: Closed loop service: Izzy offers a subscription-style model where you can send your mascara tube back and have it cleaned, sanitised, and reused for new packaging. Each outer tube is made from medical grade stainless steel that can be endlessly refillable and recyclable. The inner part & wand are plastic though.
Related: 10 Best Plastic Free Perfumes for a Natural, Non-Toxic Scent!
Q&As
– Why should I worry about PFAS and microplastics in mascara?
Because mascara is used near your eyes every day, exposure can add up over time. Both microplastics and PFAS harm ecosystems and may have long-term health implications, as outlined in our articles with links to the scientific research.
– Is clean mascara effective?
Yes. Many natural mascara formulas offer great separation, lift, and definition, without the harmful ingredients.
Related: Plastic Free Glitter: Which Cosmetic Glitter Brands are Biodegradable and Compostable?
Conclusion
Swapping to a non-toxic, PFAS-free, microplastic-free mascara in sustainable packaging is one of the simplest ways to protect both your health and the environment. However, as you could see from this list there is still some improvement to be made in the industry. Overall, compared to mainstream brands, these products are very clean! Small changes add up, and your mascara switch is a meaningful step toward cleaner beauty and a cleaner planet.
References and Scientific Research Sources:
(1) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11587687/
(2) https://news.nd.edu/news/use-of-pfas-in-cosmetics-widespread-new-study-finds/
(3) https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/are-there-toxins-in-your-mascara/
(4) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas-cosmetics
(5) https://www.beatthemicrobead.org/guide-to-microplastics/
This article was written by Ella Matthews, and reviewed by I’m Plastic Free Editor, Simona Paganetto
—
Browse our platform for non-toxic plastic alternatives: I’m Plastic Free
