A new bill passed in the Illinois General Assembly will ban the manufacture and sale of personal care products containing nonbiodegradable plastic glitter from 31 December 2029, expanding existing microplastics legislation and placing new compliance duties on cosmetics manufacturers and retailers.
House Bill 4175, introduced by Representative Kimberly Du Buclet, amends the Illinois Environmental Protection Act to prohibit the use of nonbiodegradable plastic glitter in any personal care product sold in the state. The measure builds on prior restrictions targeting synthetic microbeads and is set to take effect from 1 January 2028, with a one-year grace period for selling existing inventory.
Background: Microplastics and Regulatory Momentum
Illinois was among the first US states to legislate against microbeads in personal care products, citing their harmful impact on aquatic ecosystems. The latest legislative update reflects growing concerns about plastic glitter—defined in the bill as reflective, precision-cut plastic particles under 2mm in size, commonly used for decorative purposes in cosmetics.
According to the bill text, microplastics like glitter not only persist in water systems but can also absorb pollutants, threatening aquatic food chains and undermining investments in water quality and tourism.
The legislation follows voluntary industry shifts, with several major cosmetic companies already phasing out plastic glitter in favour of biodegradable alternatives. However, the new law mandates full compliance across the supply chain, including manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.
Key Compliance Timelines and Definitions
The ban applies to any "personal care product"—from soaps to shampoos and body creams—that includes nonbiodegradable plastic glitter as a decorative ingredient. Prescription drugs are excluded.
- 1 January 2028: Law takes effect
- 31 December 2029: Manufacturing and sales ban begins
- 31 December 2030: End of grace period for selling pre-existing stock (acquired before 31 December 2029)
This gives industry stakeholders approximately four years to reformulate products and manage inventories.
Implications for Industry and Stakeholders
The legislation has wide-reaching implications beyond manufacturers. Retailers will need to review procurement practices, while regulators and environmental agencies will monitor compliance and assess the effectiveness of the ban on local ecosystems.
The bill reinforces the trend toward sustainability-driven regulation in the US market, echoing movements in the EU and other jurisdictions targeting microplastics in consumer products.
Given the global nature of the cosmetics supply chain, international companies selling into Illinois will also need to align with the upcoming requirements or risk penalties and reputational damage.
