Self-Assembly 4-Butylresorcinol Deep Eutectic Solvent Nanoparticles for Efficient Transdermal Delivery and Whitening

Area of Science:

• Cosmetic Science
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Skin whitening agents often suffer from poor stability and low skin permeability.
• Developing effective transdermal delivery systems is crucial for cosmetic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel 4-butylresorcinol (4-BR)/D-a-Tocopherol Polyethylene Glycol Succinate (TPGS) deep eutectic solvent (DES) system.
• To create carrier-free nanoparticles (NPs) for enhanced skin whitening efficacy and transdermal delivery.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of the 4-BR/TPGS DES using theoretical calculations, DSC, FTIR, 1H-NMR, and 2D NMR.
• Evaluation of self-assembled NPs for skin permeability, 4-BR stability, and melanin inhibition.
• Comparative analysis with traditional 4-BR oil-based formulations.

Main Results:

• The 4-BR/TPGS DES self-assembled into NPs with a 3.46-fold increase in skin permeability.
• Improved 4-BR stability (1.53-fold) and enhanced melanin inhibition (1.55-fold in B16 cells, 2.16-fold in zebrafish).
• Demonstrated superior whitening efficacy and transdermal delivery potential compared to conventional formulations.

Conclusions:

• The TPGS-based DES combined with self-assembly technology offers a novel approach for advanced transdermal delivery.
• This formulation shows significant potential for developing next-generation skin care products with enhanced whitening effects.
• Highlights the revolutionary potential of DES and nanotechnology in cosmetic science.