Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026
10:53
Anionic Polymerization of an Amphiphilic Copolymer for Preparation of Block Copolymer Micelles Stabilized by π-π Stacking Interactions
Published on: October 10, 2016
Formulation of ascorbic acid microemulsions with alkyl polyglycosides
N Pakpayat1, F Nielloud, R Fortuné
1Laboratoire de Pharmacie Galénique, Pharmacotechnie et Biopharmacie, UFR Pharmacie, Montpellier, France.
Summary
This study developed optimized ascorbic acid microemulsions for topical use, demonstrating their potential as effective carriers for skin whitening and other applications.
Area of Science:
- Physical Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Dermatology
Background:
- Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is a potent antioxidant with therapeutic potential but is unstable in formulations.
- Microemulsions offer a promising delivery system for enhancing the stability and skin penetration of active ingredients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and optimize ascorbic acid-loaded microemulsions for topical application.
- To investigate the physicochemical properties and transdermal penetration of these microemulsions.
- To evaluate their potential as a carrier for skin whitening and other dermatological treatments.
Main Methods:
- Microemulsions were formulated using the Hydrophilic Lipophilic Deviation (HLD) concept and dilution ternary diagrams.
- Physicochemical characteristics were analyzed, including surface tension and structure via small angle neutron scattering.
- In vitro transdermal penetration was assessed using Frantz cells.
Main Results:
- Optimized bicontinuous microemulsion structures were identified.
- Ascorbic acid loading at the interface modified the microemulsion structure.
- The microemulsions demonstrated effective solubilization, stabilization, and in vitro transdermal penetration of ascorbic acid.
- Significant ascorbic acid accumulation in the epidermis was observed, correlating with melanin decomposition.
Conclusions:
- Ascorbic acid microemulsions are effective carrier systems for topical applications, particularly for skin whitening due to epidermal accumulation.
- The developed microemulsions show potential for various dermatological applications based on their penetration profiles.
- These systems offer a viable approach for formulating and protecting unstable ascorbic acid.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Alkylation of β-Diester Enolates: Malonic Ester Synthesis
Malonic ester synthesis is a method to obtain α substituted carboxylic acids from ꞵ-diesters such as diethyl malonate and alkyl halides.
01:07Alkylation of β-Ketoester Enolates: Acetoacetic Ester Synthesis
Acetoacetic ester synthesis is a method to obtain ketones from alkyl halides and β-keto esters. The reaction occurs in the presence of an alkoxide base that abstracts the acidic proton of the β-keto esters. The step results in an enolate ion which is doubly stabilized. The enolate then reacts with an alkyl halide via the SN2 process to produce an alkylated ester intermediate with a new C–C bond. The hydrolysis of the intermediate, followed by acidification, results in an alkylated β-keto acid.