An Innovative Dendrimer-Based Retinol Delivery System for Xerosis Care: Stability, Tolerance, and Sustained Hydration

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Materials Science
• Biotechnology and Nanotechnology

Background:

• Retinol is crucial for skin health but suffers from poor stability and tolerance.
• Limitations include photodegradation and irritation, especially in compromised skin.
• Supramolecular biovectorization offers a potential solution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of poly-L-lysine dendrimers (PLL_G3) on retinol's stability and skin performance.
• To evaluate skin tolerance and functional improvements after topical application.

Main Methods:

• Characterization of retinol-PLL_G3 complex using HPLC and UV spectroscopy.
• Assessment of formulation stability under oxidative, thermal, and photochemical stress.
• Evaluation of skin hydration (corneometry) and clinical tolerance/efficacy over 28 days in subjects with xerosis.

Main Results:

• Retinol remained intact within the PLL_G3 matrix via non-covalent encapsulation.
• The formulation showed high stability, even after UV exposure.
• Significant skin hydration increase (+61.5%) and improved skin dryness, suppleness, and comfort were observed with good tolerance.

Conclusions:

• PLL_G3 supramolecular vectorization enhances retinol stability, tolerance, and skin hydration.
• This strategy enables controlled retinol release, preserving skin barrier integrity.
• Poly-L-lysine dendrimers offer a clinically relevant approach for safer, effective topical retinol use, especially for sensitive and aged skin.