Research progress of biomaterial-based hydrogels in the treatment of psoriasis

As a key barrier in psoriatic skin, the thickened stratum corneum limits the efficacy of topical therapies, prompting the development of biomaterial-based drug delivery systems. Although systems such as microneedles, nanofibers, and nanoparticles enhance transdermal delivery, single-component approaches often face limitations like restricted drug-loading capacity, uncontrolled release, and poor mechanical properties. Hydrogels, despite their extracellular matrix-mimicking structure, high biocompatibility, and tunable properties, are limited by weak hydrophobic drug encapsulation and insufficient mechanical strength when used alone. Recent advances have thus focused on integrating hydrogels with other biomaterials to create composite systems that overcome these drawbacks synergistically. This review highlights the advantages of biomaterial-hydrogel composites-such as enhanced drug retention, improved penetration, and stimulus-responsive release in the psoriatic microenvironment. Key combinations, including nanoparticle-, nanofiber-, and microneedle-hydrogel systems, are discussed for their superior efficacy over single-component therapies. Current challenges regarding stability, biosafety, and scalability are addressed, along with future directions involving smart, wearable hybrid systems for personalized psoriasis management. These composites hold significant clinical potential for advancing topical psoriatic treatments.