Undiscovered Direct Exposure Source of Micro-Nanoplastic to the Human Eye: Disposable Eye Drops

Microplastic entry into the ocular surface through eye drops usage

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Researchers detected microplastics in commercial eye drops and on the ocular surfaces of human volunteers, then confirmed in rat experiments that these particles can penetrate the eye, enter the bloodstream, elevate oxidative stress, and trigger ocular inflammation — identifying eye drops as a previously overlooked microplastic exposure route.

Microplastic Pollution In Eye Drops: Investigating Microplastic Contamination In Disposable And Multi-Use Artificial Tears

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Researchers investigated whether disposable and multi-use artificial tear eye drops contain microplastic contamination, raising concerns about direct ocular exposure to plastic particles through a product applied directly to the eye.

Microplastics and Nano-plastics in Eye Health: Ocular Exposure, Toxicity, and Clinical Implications

Microplastics and Nano-plastics in Eye Health: Ocular Exposure, Toxicity, and Clinical Implications

Microplastic contamination in commercial eyedrop products: detection and characterization study

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This study detected microplastics in 81% of 21 commercial eyedrop products tested in Malaysia, with polystyrene being the dominant polymer and lubricant eyedrops showing the highest contamination levels. Researchers estimate that lubricant eyedrop users in Malaysia may collectively be exposed to up to 2.7 million microplastic particles daily, highlighting an overlooked route of direct human ocular exposure.