By Dr. Karan Lal, double board-certified pediatric, adult and cosmetic dermatologist, director at Affiliated Dermatology North Scottsdale (affderm.com)
When people think about reducing their plastic exposure, skincare products rarely come to mind. Most of us focus on reusable water bottles, grocery bags or food storage containers. Yet personal care products have become a growing focus for researchers studying both environmental sustainability and human health.
In 2023, the United Nations Environment Programme identified personal care products as one of the 10 priority plastic use sectors because of the potential for harmful chemical exposure to people and the environment. Just one year later, the global cosmetic packaging market reached an estimated $55.38 billion, with skincare representing the largest share. Those numbers illuminate how much plastic moves through our daily routines, not only in product packaging but, in some cases, in the formulations themselves.
Affiliated Dermatology North Scottsdale
Recent dermatology research has highlighted evidence linking microplastics, nanoplastics and plastic-associated chemicals found in personal care products to skin inflammation, disruption of the skin barrier, acne, eczema flares and accelerated skin aging. Researchers are also investigating potential links to endocrine disruption and other broader health concerns. While many questions remain, the growing body of evidence supports taking practical steps to reduce unnecessary exposure without sacrificing skin health or being influenced by fear-based claims circulating social media.
Packaging deserves just as much attention as the ingredients inside the bottle. Every cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen comes in a container with its own environmental footprint. Plastic packaging is inexpensive, lightweight and durable, but much of it is designed for a single use before becoming waste, such as travel packs. Researchers are also examining how plastics used throughout the product life cycle may contribute to overall human exposure to plastic-associated chemicals. While consumers cannot eliminate every source of plastic, choosing refillable products when available, selecting glass packaging when practical and using products completely before replacing them can reduce unnecessary wastewithout compromising an effective skincare routine.
One of the most impactful changes you can make is also one of the simplest. Use fewer products.
Many people believe healthier skin requires an elaborate routine with multiple serums, toners and treatments. In reality, most skin concerns can be managed with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen and one or two treatment products selected for your individual needs. A minimalist routine reduces packaging waste, saves money and lowers the risk of irritation that can occur when too many active ingredients are layered together.
It is also important to separate emerging science from misinformation. Seeing a plastic-derived ingredient on a label does not automatically make a product unsafe, and consumers should not feel compelled to throw away products that are working well for their skin. Dermatologists evaluate products by considering the entire formulation, available safety data and clinical evidence rather than focusing on a single ingredient in isolation. As research continues, our understanding of plastics and their effects on human health will continue to evolve.
Healthy skin has never depended on owning the most products. It comes from consistency, choosing products supported by evidence and protecting the skin barrier every day. By making thoughtful purchases, finishing what you buy and embracing a simpler skincare routine, you can support both your skin health and a more sustainable future. Sometimes, less really is more.
