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

January 2012 in “ Skin Research and Technology ”

Natthakitta Suwannateep, Supason Wanichwecharungruang, Joachim W. Fluhr, Alexa Patzelt, Jürgen Lademann, Martina C. Meinke

curcumin ethyl cellulose methyl cellulose o/w lotion w/o lotion skin penetration follicular penetration oil-in-water lotion water-in-oil lotion

Studysummary In this study, curcumin was successfully encapsulated in ethyl cellulose and its blend with methyl cellulose, enhancing its skin penetration efficacy through o/w and w/o lotions compared to water suspensions.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

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.

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