Special Focus Issue: Transdermal, Topical, and Follicular Drug Delivery Systems

The special focus issue edited by Jason McConville discussed various advancements in transdermal, topical, and follicular drug delivery systems. One study highlighted the use of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) for delivering flutamide in the treatment of androgenic alopecia, showing higher skin drug deposition and increased hair follicle growth compared to a control solution. Another study demonstrated the potential of adapalene liposomes targeted at pilosebaceous units to reduce side effects and improve patient compliance for acne treatment. Additionally, a combination of adapalene and vitamin C in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) was reported to target the skin epidermal layer effectively and reduce systemic penetration, showing promise for acne therapy. Other research included the characterization of indomethacin in semisolid polymer gels for targeted pain relief, the development of an antioxidant cream using byproducts from the food industry, and the evaluation of a pediatric pain relief transdermal patch. The issue also explored the use of dissolving microneedles for the intradermal delivery of interferon-a-2b, offering an alternative to intramuscular administration. Overall, the issue presented valuable insights into novel drug delivery systems with the potential to enhance treatment efficacy and patient experience.