Nanosized Labile and Particulate Ingredients in Topical Formulations: A Strategic Approach Against Photoageing and Photocarcinogenesis

Abstract

Skin being the largest and fastest-growing organ of the body acts as a protective coat for the body. It is not only a barrier to environmental insults and pathogenic invasions but is also a site of beauty, a mirror of internal health and a route of drug delivery. The topical problems often lead to cosmetic aberrations, for example, dandruff, baldness, acne, rosacea, urticaria, melasma, and wrinkles. The epidermal and dermal layers are viable layers, and free radicals pose a big threat to their viability. The UV radiations have been infamous for their role in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing sunburn, tanning, itching, inflammation, hyperpigmentation, etc. Additionally, UVB rays have the power to reach dermal layers and lead to the activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), disturb the skin structure and cause premature skin ageing. Photoageing has become one of the major cosmetic concerns and designing a broad spectrum photoprotective formulation is the need of the hour. Drugs generally used in treating skin ailments fall in the category of anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory agents, antioxidants, anti-infectives, immunosuppressants and anticancer agents. There is no dearth of therapeutic molecules for dermatological problems but making effective, safe and non-irritant formulations is always a challenge for the cosmetic scientist. Nanotechnology inspired strategies are being used for better product performance and site-specific targeting. Nanosized labile carriers such as liposomes, niosomes, nanoemulsions, nanospheres and nanostructured lipid carriers have been designed in the cosmetic and dermatological product categories with the aim to achieve enhanced skin penetration, controlled and sustained release, better entrapment and better product stability of the drug. Regulations and guidance on the use of nanomaterials and nanocosmetics are being promulgated by regulatory agencies so as to ensure consumer safety and address environmental concerns. This chapter will cover all these aspects and will also update on the manufacturing, testing, packaging and labelling directions for nanomaterials in cosmetics and topical products.