TLDR Topical drugs can target hair follicles to treat skin conditions more effectively.
The document discussed the potential of topical drug delivery to target specific skin regions like hair follicles, sweat, and sebaceous glands, which could enhance drug concentration at the action site while minimizing systemic circulation. This approach was particularly relevant for treating skin conditions such as acne, cancer, and alopecia, and for cosmetic purposes. Two main strategies to improve local delivery were highlighted: selecting appropriate formulations with carriers and additives, and choosing drug candidates based on their physicochemical properties. When formulation adjustments were not possible, the drug's inherent properties determined the effectiveness of delivery and targeting.
10 citations,
April 2016 in “Research and reports in transdermal drug delivery” Transfollicular drug delivery is promising but needs more research to improve and understand it better.
2 citations,
January 2018 in “Elsevier eBooks” Lipid nanoparticles improve drug delivery through the skin, offering stability, controlled release, and better compatibility with skin.
9 citations,
June 2021 in “International Journal of Pharmaceutics” Using polymeric micelles to deliver spironolactone topically could improve wound healing in skin affected by glucocorticoids.
263 citations,
February 2013 in “Wiley interdisciplinary reviews. Nanomedicine and nanobiotechnology” Polymeric nanoparticles show promise for treating skin diseases.
25 citations,
December 2013 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings” New methods like nanoparticles and microneedles show promise for better skin drug delivery, especially for hair disorders.
111 citations,
March 2012 in “Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery” Liposomes could improve how skin care products work but are costly and not very stable.
