A Sustainable Solution to Skin Diseases: Ecofriendly Transdermal Patches

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dermal Drug Delivery
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• The skin, the body's largest organ, is prone to numerous diseases, necessitating effective drug delivery methods.
• Dermal and transdermal drug delivery systems, such as patches and microneedles, offer controlled and targeted medication administration.
• Current systems often rely on synthetic materials with potential environmental drawbacks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the use of natural, biodegradable materials in designing eco-friendly dermal and transdermal drug delivery systems.
• To explore the application of these natural materials in treating skin conditions like wounds, cancer, inflammation, and infections.
• To evaluate the significance and future potential of sustainable approaches in dermatological treatments.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies utilizing natural materials for skin patches and microneedles.
• Analysis of material properties, including biocompatibility and biodegradability.
• Examination of therapeutic applications in wound healing, skin cancer, inflammation, and infections.

Main Results:

• Natural materials such as chitosan, alginate, keratin, gelatin, cellulose, hyaluronic acid, pectin, and collagen are viable alternatives for fabricating drug delivery systems.
• These eco-friendly systems demonstrate efficacy in treating various skin conditions.
• The use of natural materials aligns with principles of green chemistry and sustainable manufacturing.

Conclusions:

• Natural materials offer a sustainable and effective solution for dermal and transdermal drug delivery systems.
• The development of green synthesis routes for these materials is crucial for ecological and economic benefits.
• Further research into natural material-based systems holds significant promise for advancing dermatological treatments.