Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Skin Depigmentation: A Modulated Aspect in Cosmetics

Abstract

Background: Hyperpigmentation is a common disorder characterized by brown patches, differential skin tone and sunburns on the area of exposure. Hydroquinone (HQ) is considered the most effective agent in treatment of pigmentation but exhibits skin irritation and local toxicity at higher concentrations. Hence, HQ encapsulated Nano Lipid Carriers (NLCs) were designed and assessed as an alternative for treatment of pigmentation to reduce skin irritation without exhibiting toxicity. Objective: The objective of this study was to formulate and evaluate hydroquinone-encapsulated NLCs in cream base as a treatment in hyperpigmentation. Methods: The present formulation aims to encapsulate adequate hydroquinone in NLCs for potential application of depigmentation. Hydroquinone was formulated utilizing melt- emulsification ultrasound dispersion technique where aqueous phase consisted of water and Tween 80 whereas; lipid phase was prepared with oleic acid and glyceryl monostearate. The characteristics of final formulation were analyzed by surface morphology, percentage entrapment efficiency, ex-vivo release, in-vitro release and cell line studies. Results: Hydroquinone-encapsulated lipid nanocarriers demonstrated promising results within the size range of 22 ± 1.22 nm to 164 ± 0.75 nm and encapsulation efficiency of 78 ± 5.05 % in partially crystallized lipid-based state. The system displayed enhancement in absorption and penetration with zeta potential of -10.2 ± 1.86 mV to -24.6 ± 0.45 mV and presented substantial decrease in water loss as a result of packet formation. Conclusion: The results indicated that hydroquinone encapsulated NLCs are safe and effective for treatment of pigmented skin and works by reducing the appearance of dark patches and improving skin texture.