After this first milestone, we have set ourselves two further ambitious goals for 2020:
To be on the safe side, we also want to completely remove other tiny solid synthetic polymers, which we regard as microplastics, from products from which they can be washed out. Some of these substances were previously used as opacifiers and should be converted to readily biodegradable alternatives by 2020 at the latest. Opacifiers are responsible for the characteristic creamy texture and color of a few product formulas. By changing the formulas concerned, all Beiersdorf products that can be washed off will be free from microplastics.
We will also as a preventive measure completely dispense with nylon as an ingredient in our products. We currently still use nylon to improve the smooth skin feeling when applying a few “Leave on” products. “Leave on” products are not washed off and stay on the skin after application.
To meet this self-imposed commitment by 2020 at the latest, we are currently working intensively on the corresponding formula conversions and product launches. We have long since ruled out the use of microplastic-based raw materials for new product developments.