Alginate is a naturally derived polysaccharide widely applied in drug delivery, as well as regenerative medicine, tissue engineering and wound care. Due to its excellent biocompatibility, low toxicity, and the ability to absorb a high amount of exudate, it is widely used in modern wound dressings. Numerous studies indicate that alginate applied in wound care can be enhanced with the incorporation of nanoparticles, revealing additional properties beneficial in the healing process. Among the most extensively explored materials, composite dressings with alginate loaded with antimicrobial inorganic nanoparticles can be mentioned. However, other types of nanoparticles with antibiotics, growth factors, and other active ingredients are also investigated. This review article focuses on the most recent findings regarding novel alginate-based materials loaded with nanoparticles and their applicability as wound dressings, with special attention paid to the materials of potential use in the treatment of chronic wounds.

Hydrogels have a tridimensional structure. They have the ability to absorb a significant amount of water or other natural or simulated fluids that cause their swelling albeit without losing their structure. Their properties can be exploited for encapsulation and modified targeted drug release. Among the numerous natural polymers suitable for obtaining hydrogels, gellan gum is one gaining much interest. It is a gelling agent with many unique features, and furthermore, it is non-toxic, biocompatible, and biodegradable. Its ability to react with oppositely charged molecules results in the forming of structured physical materials (films, beads, hydrogels, nanoparticles). The properties of obtained hydrogels can be modified by chemical crosslinking, which improves the three-dimensional structure of the gellan hydrogel. In the current review, an overview of gellan gum hydrogels and their properties will be presented as well as the mechanisms of ionotropic gelation or chemical crosslinking. Methods of producing gellan hydrogels and their possible applications related to improved release, bioavailability, and therapeutic activity were described.

The widespread role of titanium (IV) oxide (TiO2) in many industries makes this substance of broad scientific interest. TiO2 can act as both a photoprotector and photocatalyst, and the potential for its role in both applications increases when present in nanometer-sized crystals. Its sunlight-scattering properties are used extensively in sunscreens. Furthermore, attempts have been made to incorporate TiO2 into dermal formulations of photolabile drugs. However, the propensity to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) rendering this material potentially cytotoxic limits its role. Therefore, modifications of TiO2 nanoparticles (e.g., its polymorphic form, size, shape, and surface modifications) are used in an effort to reduce its photocatalytic effects. This review provides an overview of the potential risks arising from and opportunities presented by the use of TiO2 in skin care formulations.