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Microplastics in cosmetics and their impact on human health
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Researchers reviewed 14 studies on microplastics in cosmetics and personal care products, finding polyethylene is the most common microplastic in facial scrubs, body washes, and toothpaste, with exposure occurring mainly through skin contact and ingestion. Despite growing awareness, major gaps remain in understanding the long-term health effects and environmental persistence of these cosmetic microplastics.
Abstract Background The growing prevalence of emerging pollutants, particularly microplastics originating from cosmetic and personal care products, has become a significant global concern due to their potential impact on Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). Despite not being routinely monitored, these contaminants pose serious risks to both environmental integrity and human health through various exposure pathways. With the rise of industrialization, urbanization, and consumer product use, understanding their sources, pathways, and impacts needs to be explored. Objective This scoping review aimed to map potential exposure routes and health risks associated with microplastics in cosmetics, and to identify research gaps in the current literature. Methods A literature search was conducted across four scientific databases: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science. Studies were screened based on predefined inclusion criteria, focusing on those addressing microplastic content in cosmetics, exposure pathways, toxicity, and environmental behavior. Fourteen eligible studies were included and thematically analyzed. Results Polyethylene is the most frequently detected microplastic in cosmetic products, with polyolefins, plastic microspheres, and microbeads also common. These microplastics are found in a wide array of rinse-off personal care products, including facial scrubs, body cleansers, exfoliators, shower gels, toothpaste, anti-callus scrubs, and face washes. The primary exposure routes associated with these products are dermal and oral. Most published studies specifically report the presence of microplastics in rinse-off cosmetics, while one study documents that sunscreen (at 100 mg/L) leads to a loss of cell viability and decreases in lysosomal count, size, and mitochondrial number. Conclusion The presence of microplastics in cosmetics presents a growing concern to both environmental and human health. Despite increased awareness, significant gaps remain in understanding their long-term effects and environmental persistence. Attention must be given to supporting research on exposure risks, promoting the development of safer alternatives, and implementing global regulatory measures for the use of microplastics in C & PCPs. These steps are essential to advance SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water), ensuring a healthier planet and population. Graphical abstract
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