Ever since Euphoria hit our screens last summer, we’ve all been obsessed with throwing as much glitter at our faces that will stick – thanks to make-up artist Donni Davy.

While that looks great, the impacts on the planet are not so great. In fact, the microplastics that appear in the majority of cosmetic glitters destroy marine life and ultimately have an impact on us when they enter the food chain. However, recent studies have shown that 64 per cent of people in the UK weren’t even aware that glitter contains microplastics and the impacts on the environment. 

To raise awareness, Selfridges has today pledged to ban cosmetic glitters containing microplastics from its stores by 2021. “As we continue to see the devastating and irreversible impact of single-use plastics on marine life, we are committed to reducing Selfridges’ plastic footprint,” says Daniella Vega, director of sustainability. “By removing all microplastic glitter products from our beauty offer, we hope to inspire our customers, suppliers, and fellow retailers to act responsibly, seek alternatives, and make positive change.” Don’t worry though to all of those who still want to shine on, there are plenty of alternatives out there. 

The ban of cosmetic glitter is the latest step in Selfridges’ plan to become more sustainable. Over the years, the group has banned fur (2005), microbeads (2016), plastic straws (2017), and exotic skins (2019) from being sold in its stores.