Mechanistic Perspectives on the Dermatologic Potential of Topical Metformin: A Scoping Review

    August 2025 in “ World Academy of Sciences Journal ”
    Ellia Nilam, Julia Windi Gunadi, Meilinah Hidayat
    TLDR Topical metformin shows promise for skin treatments but needs more testing for safety and effectiveness.
    This scoping review explores the dermatologic potential of topical metformin, highlighting its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-photoaging, and wound-healing properties. Data from 19 studies, including in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials, indicate that topical metformin can inhibit melanogenesis, promote collagen synthesis and angiogenesis, and exert anti-photoaging effects. It also shows antitumor activity in melanoma and efficacy in treating melasma and acne vulgaris with minimal side effects. Advanced delivery systems like hydrogels and nanofibers enhance its bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes. Despite promising results, further clinical trials are needed to confirm long-term safety, optimal dosage, and formulation strategies for human use.
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