What Is Glitter Made From? Plastic Glitter vs. Bioglitter™

Glitter has been a staple in beauty, crafts, and celebrations for decades, adding sparkle to everything it touches. But have you ever stopped to think about what glitter is made from? Understanding the materials behind the shimmer is crucial, especially when it comes to its impact on the environment.  

In this blog, we’ll explore the key components of glitter, the differences between conventional PET glitter and eco-friendly Bioglitter™, and why making sustainable choices matters.  

What Is Glitter?

Glitter is essentially tiny pieces of reflective material designed to catch and reflect light. These micro-sized flakes are commonly used in cosmetics, arts and crafts, and decorations to create a shimmering effect.  

Traditionally, glitter is made by layering a reflective material (such as aluminum) onto a plastic substrate. This combination gives glitter its characteristic shine and durability. However, the type of plastic and other materials used can significantly impact its environmental footprint.  

What Is PET Glitter?

PET glitter, short for polyethylene terephthalate glitter, is the most common type of glitter available on the market. It’s made by bonding aluminum with a PET plastic film. Here are its defining characteristics:  

- Composition: PET plastic (a type of polyester) and aluminium.  
- Durability: PET glitter is highly durable, water-resistant, and maintains its shine even under harsh conditions.  
- Environmental Impact: PET glitter is non-biodegradable and contributes to microplastic pollution. When washed down the drain or discarded, it can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, harming marine life and ecosystems.  
- Cost: PET glitter is affordable and widely accessible, making it a popular choice for manufacturers.  

While PET glitter provides stunning shimmer, its environmental impact has led many to seek sustainable alternatives.  

What Is Bioglitter™?

Bioglitter™ is the eco-friendly alternative to traditional PET glitter. It’s designed to provide the same sparkle while being kinder to the environment. Bioglitter is made from plant-derived materials, primarily cellulose.  

- Composition: Bioglitter™ typically uses cellulose from eucalyptus trees, a renewable resource, as its base material. Aluminum is still used for the reflective layer, but it is bonded to the plant-based film rather than plastic.  
- Biodegradability: Unlike PET glitter, Bioglitter™ is designed to break down in natural environments like soil, waste water, or compost. Independent tests have shown that certified bioglitter degrades into harmless natural substances.  
- Eco-Credentials: Bioglitter™ is often certified by organisations like TÜV Austria to ensure its biodegradability and environmental safety.  
- Cost: Bioglitter™ is typically more expensive than PET glitter due to its sustainable materials and production processes.  

By using bioglitter, you can enjoy sparkle without contributing to the growing problem of microplastic pollution.  

Why Does It Matter?

The environmental impact of glitter is significant, especially given the global concern over microplastics. Microplastics are tiny fragments of plastic that pollute oceans, rivers, and soil, causing harm to wildlife and ecosystems. Glitter, as a microplastic, is often washed into waterways when it’s used in cosmetics or disposed of improperly.  

Switching to bioglitter is a simple yet impactful way to reduce your environmental footprint. By choosing biodegradable products, you’re helping to preserve natural ecosystems while still enjoying the magic of sparkle.  

Luminosity Glitter: A Sustainable Choice

At Luminosity Glitter, we’re proud to offer eco-friendly, biodegradable glitter that lets you shine responsibly. Our products are made with certified bioglitter, ensuring that you can enjoy all the sparkle without compromising on sustainability.  

Making the switch to Bioglitter™ is about more than just glitter - it’s about choosing a brighter future for our planet.  

Understanding what glitter is made from is essential to making informed, responsible choices. PET glitter, while common, has a lasting environmental impact due to its plastic content. Bioglitter™, on the other hand, offers a sustainable alternative that shines just as brightly without harming the planet.  

So next time you’re reaching for that shimmer, remember: not all glitter is created equal. Choose responsibly, and let your sparkle make a positive difference.  

Ready to switch to eco-friendly glitter? Explore Luminosity Glitter and start shining sustainably today!