Nanotechnology advances effectiveness of hyperpigmentation treatments, study shows
The Jordanian study found that nanotechnology boosts hyperpigmentation treatment effectiveness while reducing irritation.
JORDAN – A study done by Jordanian researchers has found that nanotechnology can enhance the absorption and reduce the irritability of hyperpigmentation treatments.
The technology works by stabilizing key depigmentation agents, including hydroquinone, arbutin, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and retinoic acid.
The study published in Precision Nanomedicine, found that nano lipid carriers and nanoemulsions, enhances ingredient penetration into the skin, increasing effectiveness at lower doses.
This approach not only improves long-term results but also minimizes the risk of irritation.
In addition, these nanoformulations prevent active ingredients from degradation caused by external factors such as light and air, ensuring they maintain their potency for extended periods.
In a related development, researchers from Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Jordan, conducted a research on the conventional depigmentation treatments containing ingredients such as hydroquinone, arbutin, and kojic, azelaic, and retinoic acid.
They found out that the products are effective but often often face challenges such as instability, insufficient skin absorption, and potential irritation when combined in formulations.
To address these issues, the researchers conducted both in vitro and ex vivo skin penetration studies to assess the impact of nanotechnology on these treatments.
They specifically tested lipid nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), focusing on their potential to boost ingredient stability and facilitate better skin absorption.
Findings revealed that solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) loaded with hydroquinone significantly enhanced skin absorption and provided a more controlled release compared to conventional hydroquinone hydrogels.
Similarly, kojic acid encapsulated in NLCs showed higher tyrosinase inhibition, while retinoic acid delivered via nanocarriers showed improved photostability and reduced skin irritation.
Likewise, kojic acid encapsulated in nanostructured lipid carriers demonstrated enhanced tyrosinase inhibition, while retinoic acid delivered through nanocarriers exhibited increased photostability and decreased skin irritation.
The Liposomal formulations enhanced the absorption of arbutin and azelaic acid into the skin by encasing them in protective phospholipid bilayers, minimizing the risk of irritation and preventing undesired absorption into the bloodstream.
Meanwhile, nanoemulsions kept vitamin C and niacinamide stable, making them more effective and allowing their brightening benefits to last longer.
Nanoemulsions preserved the stability of vitamin C and niacinamide, enhancing their effectiveness and prolonging their brightening properties.
Despite these promising advancements, the study highlighted the lack of standardized safety assessments for several nanoformulations.
Researchers emphasized the need for regulatory measures to address potential health risks and ensure the safe application of nanotechnology in skincare products.
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