Comparison of two encapsulated curcumin particular systems contained in different formulations with regard to<i>in vitro</i>skin penetration

The study investigated the encapsulation of curcumin into two polymer systems, ethyl cellulose and methyl cellulose blended ethyl cellulose, achieving a loading capacity of 46-48%. The in vitro skin penetration of these systems was tested using three formulations: o/w lotion, w/o lotion, and water suspension on porcine ear skin. Results showed that both o/w and w/o lotions enhanced follicular penetration of curcumin, with w/o lotion being more effective than o/w. Additionally, the use of ethyl cellulose blended with methyl cellulose improved curcumin penetration across all formulations. This encapsulation method provided an efficient means to deliver curcumin into the skin.