The Mica Supply Chain and Exploitation in the Cosmetic Industry

When you swipe on a highlighter, reach for an eyeshadow, or admire the shimmer in a lipstick, you have most likely encountered mineral flakes of mica. This mineral gives beauty products their sparkle, but the supply chain behind it hides serious issues such as child labour, illegal mining, hazardous conditions, and almost no traceability. Mica extraction often goes unnoticed, making it even more important for the cosmetic industry to become sustainable and circular.

So, what is mica? It is a group of shiny minerals that help create pearlescent finishes and shimmer in cosmetics. Its appearance as a fine flake or powder gives highlighters, eyeshadows, lipsticks, and other products their sheen.

The major sourcing regions for mica have been identified as high-risk due to serious humanitarian concerns.

In India, the states of Jharkhand and Bihar are known for mica extraction, often through informal or illegal mines. Researchers estimate that up to 22,000 children may be working in these mines.

In Madagascar, the southern regions such as around Anosy have become an increasingly important source of mica and are also recognised as high-risk for child labour and unsafe mining practices.

For instance, reports describe children in India earning as little as ₹15 that means around 0.17 US dollars in mica mining, while the final cosmetic products are sold at very high profit margins.

Excavation of mica often takes place in narrow underground shafts and tunnels that are unregulated. The mineral passes through multiple intermediaries like collectors, brokers, processors, and exporters before reaching cosmetics manufacturers.

In many cosmetic supply chains, actual mine-of-origin data is missing. Traceability remains weak, and even when brands claim 'responsible sourcing,' verification is often unclear.

A circular approach to makeup cannot stop at recycling packaging because that alone does not solve the problem. It must include social circularity, ensuring that materials are sourced from systems where human rights, worker welfare, and traceability are built in.

Map the supply chain

Brands must trace mica from the mine through all processing steps and publish data on volumes, origins, and audit results.

Research shows that raising payments to mica pickers in India to reach a living income would increase current prices about five times, yet have minimal impact on the final product cost.

Companies should use certified or controlled mica, source from verified traceable mines, or invest in safe synthetic alternatives, while maintaining full transparency on whichever route they choose.

Finally, brands should report openly to consumers, providing information on mica sourcing, auditing bodies, community impact, and measurable progress with clear deadlines.

Traceability and ethical sourcing must be strictly enforced, especially when a child’s future is at stake for an eyeshadow.