Cosmetic products, which include various additives such as chemicals, fragrances, preservatives, stabilizers, and other ingredients that increase their performance and shelf life, are widely used around the world. However, the widespread use of these products results in the continuous release of their residues into the environment, particularly into water systems. The global cosmetics market is valued at USD 374.18 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach an estimated USD 758.05 billion by 2032. Despite challenges such as a 31% decline in raw material shipments in February 2024, the market’s growth, particularly in the United States, is fuelled by increasing consumer spending on personal care products. Numerous chemical compounds found in cosmetics exhibit biological activity, persistence, and the ability to bioaccumulate and directly pose significant risks to both human health and ecosystems. The environmental persistence and bioaccumulation potential of these compounds can lead to toxic effects such as genotoxicity, cytotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and endocrine disruption. Particular attention is given to the impact of these pollutants on aquatic organisms, which can serve as indicators of broader environmental harm. This growing concern stresses the need for stricter regulations, improved formulations, and further research into the ecological and public health risks posed by cosmetic contaminants in water systems.