Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 29, 2025

Author Spotlight: Innovative Microneedle-Based Strategies for Enhanced Exosome Delivery and Stability
Published on: July 12, 2024
Drug Delivery Systems based on Microneedles for Dermatological Diseases and Aesthetic Enhancement
Mariane Massufero Vergilio1, James Caradoc Birchall2, Lonetá Lauro Lima3
1Graduate Program in Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil.
Abstract:
Microneedle (MN) devices comprise of micron-sized structures that circumvent biological barriers in a minimally invasive manner. MN research continues to grow and evolve; the technology was recently identified as one of the top ten overall emerging technologies of 2020. There is a growing interest in using such devices in cosmetology and dermatological conditions where the MNs mechanically disrupt the outer skin barrier layer, creating transient pathways that allow the passage of materials to underlying skin layers. This review aims to appraise the application of microneedle technologies in skin science, provide information on potential clinical benefits, as well as indicate possible dermatological conditions that can benefit from this technology, including autoimmunemediated inflammatory skin diseases, skin aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin tumors. A literature review was carried out to select studies that evaluated the use of microneedles to enhance drug delivery for dermatologic purposes. MN patches create temporary pathways that allow the passage of therapeutic material to deeper layers of the skin. Given their demonstrable promise in therapeutic applications it will be essential for healthcare professionals to engage with these new delivery systems as they transition to the clinic.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Delivery: Miscellaneous Routes
Oral inhalation and nasal sprays swiftly transfer drugs across the respiratory epithelium's mucosal layer. Inhaled glucocorticoids and bronchodilators directly target lung conditions such as asthma, while fluticasone nasal spray mitigates allergic rhinitis.
Transdermal patches transport drugs...
Drug Delivery: Overview
Enteral delivery involves administering drugs directly through swallowing, sublingual placement, or buccal application. Orally administered drugs predominantly navigate the...
Drug Delivery: Parenteral Route
There are three primary parenteral routes: intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), and subcutaneous (SC). The IV route introduces the drug directly into the bloodstream, ensuring immediate action. The IM route...
Non-Oral Extravascular Drug Absorption Routes
Lipophilic drugs that are stable at salivary pH (6) and exhibit minimal binding to the oral mucosa are absorbed more...
Drug Delivery: Enteral Route
Routes of Drug Administration: Parenteral
The intravenous route (IV) of drug administration can be further categorized into two types. The bolus injection administers the entire dose rapidly, while an intravenous infusion slowly delivers smaller doses steadily.
The IV route is often...

