Glitter adds sparkle to everything from crafts to cosmetics, but its interaction with the human body is complex. Adverse health reactions to glitter are common, prompting the question of whether this seemingly inert material can truly cause a reaction. The answer involves distinguishing between a true immunological allergy and the much more frequent physical irritation caused by glitter’s composition and structure.
Glitter’s Composition and Material Hazards
Traditional glitter is manufactured by layering thin plastic films, typically polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or other polymers, coated with a reflective material like aluminum, and cut into tiny particles. The primary hazard lies in the difference between cosmetic-grade and craft glitter, which are not held to the same safety standards. Craft glitter, intended for non-human contact, often contains sharp, irregularly cut edges that pose a physical risk.
The chemical components of non-cosmetic glitter are also a source of trouble. Cheap craft varieties are often colored with non-FDA-approved dyes and pigments that may leach out when exposed to skin moisture. Some low-quality glitters contain trace heavy metals such as antimony or lead, which can irritate the dermal layers or be absorbed. Cosmetic-grade glitter, conversely, is made from non-toxic, skin-compatible plastics and colored with regulated, FDA-approved colorants.
Allergic Response Versus Physical Irritation
The majority of negative reactions to glitter are not true allergies but rather physical or irritant contact dermatitis. This reaction is caused by the abrasive nature of the glitter particles, especially those with sharp, uneven edges found in craft glitter. Symptoms are typically localized to the area of contact, appearing as redness, itching, and inflammation.
When glitter contacts sensitive areas like the eyes, the sharp plastic flakes can cause a corneal abrasion—a scratch on the clear surface of the eye. This is a foreign body reaction, not an allergy, presenting as immediate pain, redness, and the feeling of something trapped in the eye. Irritant contact dermatitis involves a direct, non-immune response where the substance physically damages the skin cells.
A true glitter allergy, known as allergic contact dermatitis, is much rarer and involves the immune system. This delayed, Type IV hypersensitivity reaction is triggered by specific chemical components, such as certain dyes, adhesives used to bind the glitter layers, or trace metals like nickel. Symptoms often take 12 to 72 hours to appear and can spread beyond the initial point of contact, sometimes causing blistering or swelling. An allergy requires prior sensitization and involves a complex immune response, unlike irritation, which is a straightforward physical or chemical reaction.
Prevention, Treatment, and Safer Glitter Options
To prevent adverse reactions, exclusively use glitter labeled as “cosmetic-grade” for any application on the face or body. Cosmetic glitter is manufactured with smooth, uniform particle sizes, often less than 400 microns, and is subject to sanitary production standards. Never apply craft glitter near the eyes or mouth, as its irregular shape and chemical composition present a significant injury risk.
Before full application, perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area of skin, such as the inner wrist, to identify potential allergic reactions. If skin irritation occurs, gentle washing with mild soap and water, followed by an emollient, is usually sufficient for treatment. Eye exposure requires immediate flushing with a sterile solution or artificial tears, and contact lenses must be removed.
If pain, blurred vision, or severe redness persists after flushing the eye, seek medical attention immediately to check for corneal abrasions or infection. A safer alternative is biodegradable glitter, typically made from plant-based materials like eucalyptus cellulose. This material is environmentally friendly and tends to have a softer texture, minimizing the risk of physical irritation to the skin.