Microplastic and dermatological care

Synthetic polymers (plastics) from fossil resources are produced in large quantities and reach the environment as microplastics due to improper disposal and via various entry routes. This may lead to implications on flora, fauna, and humans. This article aims to provide a concise overview for dermatologists about this complex topic and how it relates to daily medical practice. We performed a selective literature review regarding microplastics and sustainability in dermatology in liaison with the collaborative research center on microplastics at the University of Bayreuth. Primary and secondary microplastics are released into the environment on a large scale and accumulate in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This may lead to their disruption and bears potential to create ecological niches for human pathogenic species. Humans and animals inhale and ingest microplastics, and the health consequences have not been sufficiently investigated. This is mainly because microplastics are not a homogenous group of substances, and potential effects depend on various properties (e.g., type of polymer, size, shape, additivation, surface charge). Dermatological care is resource intensive and contributes in various ways to this matter. Plastics are currently indispensable in many fields. Nevertheless, physicians have the responsibility to prevent negative consequences for the health of society (precautionary principle). Extensive efforts are thus necessary for better sustainability; this includes medical care.