Development and characterization of topical systems for ascorbic acid: comparative studies

Abstract

The therapeutic efficacy of topically applied bioactive molecules is closely related to their ability to reach the desired active site in a sustained manner, avoiding the appearance of adverse reactions and limiting their systemic absorption. In this sense, the development and characterization of delivery systems is of paramount importance. Here, we propose the development of delivery systems for ascorbic acid, for cosmetic use, and the drug 5-fluorouracil for the treatment of skin cancer and actinic keratosis. "Conventional" liposomes, elastic liposomes, emulsions provided with liquid-crystalline structures and emulsions stabilized by solid particles, also called Pickering emulsions, will be developed. All the systems will be characterized by numerous methodologies, aiming to clarify the relationship between the physicochemical characteristics of the formulations and the release of the molecule of interest. Skin permeation tests will also be performed in order to compare the delivery effectiveness of different systems. It is hoped that the present project will contribute to obtaining optimized, safe, stable and effective formulations.