Exploring the Versatility of Microemulsions in Cutaneous Drug Delivery: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

Microemulsions are novel drug delivery systems that have garnered significant attention in the pharmaceutical research field. These systems possess several desirable characteristics, such as transparency and thermodynamic stability, which make them suitable for delivering both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. In this comprehensive review, we aim to explore different aspects related to the formulation, characterization, and applications of microemulsions, with a particular emphasis on their potential for cutaneous drug delivery. Microemulsions have shown great promise in overcoming bioavailability concerns and enabling sustained drug delivery. Thus, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of their formulation and characterization in order to optimize their effectiveness and safety. This review will delve into the different types of microemulsions, their composition, and the factors that affect their stability. Furthermore, the potential of microemulsions as drug delivery systems for skin applications will be discussed. Overall, this review will provide valuable insights into the advantages of microemulsions as drug delivery systems and their potential for improving cutaneous drug delivery.

Technological Functionalisation of Microencapsulated Genistein and Daidzein Delivery Systems Soluble in the Stomach and Intestines

“…Particle size varies based on the application. Macroemulsions have larger droplets the size of 1–100 µm, while microemulsions are 100 to 1000 nm [ 43 , 44 , 45 ]. In this study, oil droplet size was evaluated in the emulsions.…”

Strategies to Improve the Transdermal Delivery of Poorly Water-Soluble Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

“…Cationic surfactants, such as benzalkonium chloride (BKC), and anionic surfactants, such as sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), are also used in transdermal formulations, although they may be potentially more irritating to the skin compared to non-ionic surfactants [58]. In addition, ionic surfactants may interact with ionizable functional groups of the active drug, which may interfere with ME formation [62].…”

“…The amphiphilic nature of the surfactant allows it to form a monolayer around the droplets, decreasing the interfacial tension, providing stability, and preventing phase separation. Commonly selected surfactants in MEs include polysorbates (Tween ® 80, Tween ® 20), sorbitan esters (Span ® 20), and Plurols (Plurol ® Oleique, and Plurol ® Isostearique), although many other surfactants have been used [62,225]. The cosurfactant chosen for the ME system is designed to help stabilise the interfacial membrane of the droplets and further decrease surface tension.…”

“…Short-chain alcohols, such as ethanol and isopropanol, are commonly used, with the length of the alcohol chain affecting the size of the ME region [219]. PG, DGME, and PEGs have also been extensively used as cosurfactants in various ME systems [62,226]. The final component of the ME is the aqueous phase, which is commonly water.…”

Progress of Research on Antioxidants and Carriers for Skin Wound Repair

“…Microemulsions are usually composed of an oil phase, a surfactant, a cosurfactant and an aqueous phase and have optical transparency, thermodynamic stability and low interfacial tension, which can enable the effective dissolution and higher bioavailability of the drug [77]. Resveratrol is a particularly effective antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties [78].…”