Identification, Quantification, and Characterization of Microplastics in Skincare and Treatment Creams: A Potential Health Concern Related to the Exposure Pathway

This research aimed to quantify and investigate the morphology of microplastics in skincare and treatment creams related to their chemical composition and the potential risks to human health associated with exposure to microplastics by dermal contact. A total of 21 skincare and treatment cream samples, indicating the target audience (men, women, and children) for each product, and potential diseases were analyzed in terms of the hidden risk of microplastics. To determine the exact number of microplastics to which adults and children are exposed over the course of a year, in-depth research was conducted on the cosmetic care and treatment products used by over 354 respondents from Romania. This study used a free, self-reported questionnaire method, which took into account consumer habits and preferences, as well as any potential medical conditions that could affect exposure. Optical microscopy and micro-FTIR revealed a total of 109 microplastics, with different sizes, colors, and shapes (i.e., fragments and fibers) and various chemical compositions, including mixtures of polymeric and natural structures, as well as 100% synthetic materials, e.g., polyethylene and polyester. The potential health risk of exposure to microplastics in certain cosmetic formulations for adults was assessed by calculating various risk indices, such as the polymer risk index (H), pollution load index (PLI), dermal plastic absorption (DPA), chronic daily dermal exposure (CDDE), risk to human health from dermal absorption (RHHDA), and estimated annual dermal absorption (EADA). These indices were calculated based on the medical conditions and application areas indicated on the labels of the analyzed creams (i.e., skincare and treatment), for both adult and children's categories, using the fingertip unit (FTU) method for estimating the cream amount. The plastic toxicity of the analyzed samples was assessed using the H and PLI indices. The risk of microplastics to human health from dermal exposure was assessed using the DPA, CDDE, RHHDA, and EADA indices, which showed concerning results regarding the presence of these particles in cosmetic formulations.