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3D-printed hydrogel patch for controlled topical release: Gelatin/tannic acid formulation meets additive
Angélica Graça1, Valeria Tonioli2, Ana M Martins1
1Research Institute for Medicine (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
Summary
Personalized 3D-printed hydrogel patches offer a novel solution for mask-related skin issues like rosacea and maskne. These customizable patches deliver active ingredients effectively, showing potential for improved dermatological treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dermatology
- 3D Printing Technology
Background:
- Prolonged mask use can lead to skin conditions such as rosacea and acne ('maskne'), exacerbated by ill-fitting commercial dressings.
- Healthcare workers are particularly susceptible to these mask-induced dermatological issues.
- There is a need for personalized and effective treatments for mask-related skin problems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the development of customizable 3D-printed hydrogel patches for treating mask-induced skin conditions.
- To investigate the use of gelatin/tannic acid hydrogels incorporating metronidazole (for rosacea) or salicylic acid (for maskne).
- To optimize 3D printing parameters and assess patch performance for controlled drug delivery.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a Quality by Design approach with Design of Experiments to determine optimal 3D printing conditions for gelatin/tannic acid hydrogels.
- Characterized rheological properties (gelation temperature, viscosity, gelation time) and mechanical properties (tensile strength) of the hydrogel patches.
- Fabricated three patch designs (occlusive, grid, triangular infill) and evaluated in vitro drug release and permeation profiles for metronidazole and salicylic acid.
Main Results:
- Optimal printing conditions were identified for both metronidazole and salicylic acid formulations, varying in temperature and pressure.
- Infill patterns significantly influenced mechanical strength and drug release rates, with grid patterns demonstrating superior properties.
- In vitro permeation studies showed salicylic acid penetrated the skin barrier, indicating potential for therapeutic efficacy despite low overall drug retention.
Conclusions:
- Customizable 3D-printed hydrogel patches represent a promising personalized approach for managing mask-related skin conditions.
- The study demonstrates the feasibility of tailoring patch design and formulation for targeted delivery of active ingredients like metronidazole and salicylic acid.
- Further research into optimizing drug retention and long-term efficacy is warranted for clinical application.
