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Formulation, Optimization, and Comprehensive Characterization of Topical Essential Oil-Loaded Anti-Acne Microemulgels
Adeola Tawakalitu Kola-Mustapha1, Muhabat Adeola Raji2, Yusra Abdulkarim Alzahrani1
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
Cutibacterium acnes is linked to the prevalent inflammatory skin disorder known as Acne Vulgaris (AV). Some topical agents exhibit unfavorable side effects like dryness and skin inflammation, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses an increasing risk to effective AV management. This study develops and characterizes stable topical essential oil (EO)-loaded microemulgels with in vitro validated antimicrobial activities against C. acnes ATCC 6919, providing a solid scientific basis for their effectiveness. These microemulgels, with their potential to serve as an alternative to AMR-prone synthetic agents, could revolutionize the field of acne treatment. The MICs of the EOs (citronella, tea tree, and lemongrass) against C. acnes were determined. EO-loaded microemulgels were developed using a blend of microemulsion and carbopol/hyaluronic acid gel in a ratio of 1:1 and characterized, and their stability was observed over three months. The MICs of citronella, tea tree, and lemongrass EOs were 0.08, 0.16, and 0.62% v/v, respectively. The microemulgels were whitish and smooth, with characteristic EO odors. They demonstrated pH values ranging between 4.81 ± 0.20 and 5.00 ± 0.03, good homogeneity, a spreadability of 9.79 ± 0.6 and 12.76 ± 0.8 cm2, a viscosity of 29,500 and 31,130 cP, and retained stability at 4, 25, and 40 °C. EO-loaded microemulgels were developed with the potential of C. acnes management. The formulation shows adequate potential for further pharmaceutical development towards translational adoption in acne management.
Insights
Stable essential oil microemulgels show promise for managing Cutibacterium acnes, offering a potential alternative to synthetic agents and addressing antimicrobial resistance in acne vulgaris treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Acne Vulgaris (AV) is a common inflammatory skin condition linked to Cutibacterium acnes.
- Current topical treatments for AV can cause side effects and face challenges from antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
- Essential oils (EOs) offer potential antimicrobial properties against C. acnes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize stable topical essential oil-loaded microemulgels.
- To evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of these microemulgels against C. acnes.
- To provide a scientific basis for using EOs as an alternative to AMR-prone synthetic agents for acne management.
Main Methods:
- Determined the Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) of citronella, tea tree, and lemongrass EOs against C. acnes.
- Formulated EO-loaded microemulgels using a microemulsion and carbopol/hyaluronic acid gel blend (1:1 ratio).
- Characterized microemulgels for physical properties (appearance, odor, pH, homogeneity, spreadability, viscosity) and assessed stability over three months at various temperatures.
Main Results:
- MICs for citronella, tea tree, and lemongrass EOs against C. acnes were 0.08%, 0.16%, and 0.62% v/v, respectively.
- Developed microemulgels were whitish, smooth, with characteristic EO odors, and exhibited suitable pH (4.81-5.00), spreadability (9.79-12.76 cm²), and viscosity (29,500-31,130 cP).
- The microemulsions demonstrated good stability at 4°C, 25°C, and 40°C over a three-month period.
Conclusions:
- Stable essential oil-loaded microemulgels were successfully developed for potential Cutibacterium acnes management.
- The formulations exhibit promising characteristics for pharmaceutical development and could serve as an alternative to conventional treatments.
- These microemulgels represent a potential advancement in addressing antimicrobial resistance in acne vulgaris therapy.
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