Identification of Microplastics in Personal Care Products

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants that pose significant risks to human health andtheenvironment. Personal care products such as facial scrubs, toothpaste, and cosmetics often containmicrobeads usually composed of polyethylene and polypropylene, contributing to environmental pollution. These MPs enter water bodies through wastewater discharge, leading to bioaccumulationinaquatic organisms and potential ingestion by humans. Identifying microplastics in personal careproducts is crucial for understanding their impact and developing mitigation strategies. Variousanalytical techniques are employed for microplastic identification. Confocal microscopy serves as aninitial screening method, while Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and RamanSpectroscopy provide detailed polymer composition analysis. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) enables high-resolution imaging and elemental analysis. A risk assessment was conducted to evaluate microplastic emissions, with yearly microplastic releasefrom toothpaste consumption estimated. The ingestion and accumulation of MPs in the humanbodyraise concerns about long-term health implications, including potential toxic effects andbioaccumulation in tissues. Furthermore, microplastics persist in the environment, exacerbatingplastic pollution in marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Addressing microplastic contamination requiresenhanced research efforts, alternative material development, and regulatory frameworks to minimizetheir impact. Sustainable solutions, such as replacing synthetic microbeads with biodegradablealternatives in personal care formulations, are essential steps toward reducing microplastic pollution. Public awareness and stricter policies on microplastic usage in cosmetics and hygiene products canfurther aid in mitigating their environmental footprint.