Fluorescence Microscopy and FTIR-Based Analysis of Microplastics in Facial Personal Care Products

The existence of microplastics in the environment is currently a significant worldwide concern. Microbeads found in personal care and cosmetic products (PCCPs) are one of the primary sources of microplastics, which pose a threat to human health and the environment. This study was designed to detect microplastics in a popular PCCP (facial scrub and face wash). Twenty products (10 facial scrubs and 10 face washes) were analyzed using Rhodamine B staining prepared in ethanol, distilled water, and acetone, followed by fluorescence microscopy. All samples tested positive for the presence of microplastics. The observed microplastics displayed orange, red, and green fluorescence and varied in shape, with most appearing irregular and fragmented. One- way ANOVA (F = 31.87, p = 0.0001) demonstrated that there was statistical difference between these solvents and ethanol (11.40 ± 5.03) provided the most effective staining results. FTIR analysis further confirmed that polystyrene and polyurethane as the most common polymers in facial scrubs, while ethylene-propylene copolymer and polystyrene were predominant in face washes. Additional polymers, including polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, were also detected in some samples. This research highlights the occurrence of microplastics in facial scrubs and face washes and emphasizes the need for increased awareness and stronger regulatory measures to limit their use in cosmetic formulations.