Development of dihydrooxyresveratrol-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers for safe and effective treatment of hyperpigmentation

Summary

This research developed a new skin-brightening treatment using nanoparticles to deliver oxyresveratrol and its modified form (DHO) more effectively to the skin. The scientists improved the stability of these compounds by creating tiny lipid-based carriers that protect them from light damage and help them penetrate the skin barrier. Testing showed these formulations safely reduced melanin production without harming healthy skin cells, offering promise for cosmetic products to treat dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Background

Hyperpigmentation is a common dermatological condition caused by excessive melanin production. While traditional skin-brightening products target tyrosinase inhibition, many contain harmful toxicants. Oxyresveratrol (OXR) is a potent tyrosinase inhibitor but suffers from instability, poor water solubility, and limited skin permeation.

Objective

This study aimed to overcome OXR limitations by synthesizing dihydrooxyresveratrol (DHO) and encapsulating both OXR and DHO into nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) to develop safe and effective formulations for treating hyperpigmentation.

Results

OXR-NLC and DHO-NLC exhibited particle sizes of 113.07 and 110.27 nm with encapsulation efficiencies exceeding 97%. DHO demonstrated superior photostability compared to OXR. NLC formulations showed sustained release, enhanced skin membrane penetration, and no cytotoxicity up to 500 µg/mL in keratinocytes while effectively reducing melanin production in B16F10 cells.

Conclusion

DHO-loaded NLCs offer a promising strategy for developing cosmeceutical products for hyperpigmentation treatment. The simple ultrasonication formulation process enables scalability for commercial production, providing a safer and more effective topical delivery system with reduced systemic side effects.
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