Scientists are trying to ban glitter for this unexpected reason

This is not a drill. We repeat. This is not a drill.

From the editors of InStyle Words by Olivia Bahou

Bad news for any Glitter make-up addicts - it looks like the stuff isn't just difficult to handle, it's also terrible for the environment - at least according to these scientists.

Researcher Trisia Farrelly, a senior lecturer in environment and planning at New Zealand’s Massey University, wants the substance banned for good, according to Fortune.

Glitter is essentially made out of tiny pieces of microplastics, which are an environmental hazard for the oceans. If they get into the environment, microplastics can cause pollution, bring chemicals into the water, and even pose harm to marine life if ingested.

Similar to glitter are microbeads, which are common in some face washes and body scrubs. The U.S. already has a partial ban on microbeads, and the U.K. is implementing a similar policy next year.

So could a ban on glitter (aka microplastics) be next? Scientists certainly hope so, citing the dangerous effect it has on the environment.

Not to worry, though, you could still get your sparkly fix somehow: Certain retailers make environmentally friendly glitter that is biodegradable, which could escape a potential ban.