Tretinoin loaded NLCs-based sunscreen cream; preparation and characterization

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery

Background:

• Tretinoin is a gold standard anti-aging ingredient but is a potent irritant and photosensitive.
• Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) offer UV scattering properties, enhancing sunscreen formulations.
• Developing stable topical formulations for tretinoin is crucial for effective anti-aging therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate and optimize tretinoin-loaded NLCs-based sunscreen cream.
• To enhance the photostability and efficacy of tretinoin for anti-aging applications.
• To evaluate the physicochemical properties and release profile of the NLC formulation.

Main Methods:

• Tretinoin-loaded NLCs were prepared using the micro-emulsion method.
• Box-Behnken design was employed for formulation optimization.
• Characterization included particle size, PDI, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, morphology, FTIR, DSC, stability, and release studies.

Main Results:

• Optimized NLC formulations exhibited favorable physicochemical properties.
• The tretinoin-loaded NLC sunscreen cream demonstrated excellent stability.
• The formulation showed enhanced photostability, effective sun protection, and a prolonged release profile.

Conclusions:

• NLCs serve as a viable carrier for topical tretinoin delivery.
• This formulation effectively reduces tretinoin's photosensitivity.
• The NLC sunscreen offers prolonged protection against UV radiation, improving anti-aging outcomes.