Toward Intelligent and Personalized Skin Healing: Responsive Natural Hydrogels Bridging Sensing and Therapy

Dermatological conditions, including acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and chronic wounds, are distinguished by intricate lesion microenvironments, substantial heterogeneity, and notable dynamic alterations. Conventional topical therapies frequently encounter challenges such as inadequate local retention, non-specific diffusion, and potential adverse effects. In contrast, Natural hydrogels are gaining prominence as pivotal materials for dermatological interventions due to their exceptional biocompatibility, biodegradability, and adaptable multifunctional network structures. This systematic review explores the recent progress of Natural hydrogels in dermatological therapy. Particular attention is given to their capacity to sense dynamic lesion microenvironments, such as pH, reactive oxygen species, enzymes, temperature, and mechanical stress. Building on this foundation, we discuss how these smart hydrogels achieve precise interventions, including controlled anti-inflammatory release, antibacterial effects, immune regulation, and barrier repair. It also evaluates the potential and limitations of Natural hydrogels in preclinical studies and translational applications. In addition, it forecasts future directions, particularly their integration with advanced technologies such as single-cell omics, AI-driven material design, and wearable diagnostic therapeutic systems. The review aims to offer an interdisciplinary perspective and a future roadmap for precision and personalized interventions utilizing Natural hydrogels in dermatological therapy.