Decylglucoside-based microemulsions for cutaneous localization of lycopene and ascorbic acid

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Materials Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Cutaneous delivery of antioxidants can enhance UV protection.
• Microemulsions offer potential for improved topical drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate sugar-based microemulsions for simultaneous delivery of lycopene and ascorbic acid.
• To evaluate the impact of these microemulsions on skin antioxidant activity and safety.

Main Methods:

• Lycopene and ascorbic acid were incorporated into decylglucoside-based microemulsions with varying monoglycerides (ME-MC, ME-ML, ME-MO).
• Cutaneous delivery and transdermal penetration were assessed in porcine ear skin.
• Skin electrical resistance and cytotoxicity were evaluated using bioengineered skin models.

Main Results:

• Microemulsions enhanced lycopene delivery 3.3- to 8-fold and ascorbic acid delivery 1.5- to 3-fold compared to solutions.
• ME-MC showed the highest penetration enhancement and reduced skin electrical resistance most effectively.
• ME-MC demonstrated lower cytotoxicity than Triton-X100 and increased tissue antioxidant activity 10.2-fold.

Conclusions:

• Sugar-based microemulsions, particularly ME-MC, are effective for co-delivering lycopene and ascorbic acid.
• ME-MC enhances cutaneous antioxidant delivery and activity with improved safety profile.
• Further research may explore synergistic effects, though none were observed in this study.