Comparison of Two Encapsulated Curcumin Systems in Different Formulations for In Vitro Skin Penetration

The study investigated the encapsulation of curcumin into two different polymers, ethyl cellulose and methyl cellulose blended ethyl cellulose, achieving a loading capacity of approximately 46-48%. The in vitro skin penetration of these encapsulated curcumin systems was tested on porcine ear skin using laser scanning microscopy. Results indicated that o/w and w/o lotions enhanced the follicular penetration of curcumin particles more effectively than water suspensions, with w/o lotions being superior to o/w lotions. The use of ethyl cellulose blended with methyl cellulose further improved curcumin penetration across all formulations. The study concluded that these high-loaded encapsulated curcumin systems could effectively transport curcumin into the skin.