Topical Applications

Nanoparticles in topical gels and creams are being developed as an alternative carrier system to emulsions and liposomes. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), produced by exchanging a portion of the liquid oil part of an emulsion with a lipid solid at room temperature, have been shown to deliver molecules deeper into the skin than traditional mixtures. Formulation and delivery of novel nanoparticles and microparticles for topical delivery offers several advantages including:

• Increase in loading capacity.
  

• Potential for decreased skin irritation.
  

• Stabilization of sensitive actives.
  

• Controlled-release.
  

• Physical and chemical long-term stability.