RITAMARIA DI LORENZO, SONIA LANERI
University of Napoli, Italy

Abstract

Our research introduces a promising new treatment approach that incorporates 4-hexylresorcinol (HR) and ginger oil (GO), delivered through lipid nanoparticles. By leveraging the power of nanotechnology, we have been able to significantly enhance the efficacy of these active ingredients. We expertly encapsulated them in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) to maximize their bioavailability. Afterward, to assess the effectiveness of these formulations, we conducted a cosmetic clinical trial on a group of women with cutaneous hyper-pigmentations, utilizing CIE L*a*b* and melanin index colorimetric testing to analyze the results. Our findings demonstrate that SLNs and NLCs are highly effective carriers for addressing skin-related concerns, with promising applications in both the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

INTRODUCTION
Cosmetics are defined by EUR lex 1223/2009 and the FDA as “articles intended to be applied to the human body or any part thereof for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance” (1,2). Cosmetics must be safe for consumers and Companies and individuals who market cosmetics have a legal responsibility for the safety and labeling of their products. The term “cosmeceutical” was coined in 1984 by Dr. Albert Kligman of the University of Pennsylvania describing a hybrid category of products mid-way on the spectrum of ‘cosmetics and pharmaceutical.’ A cosmeceutical is consensually accepted to exert a ‘pharmaceutical therapeutic benefit’ but not necessarily a ‘biological therapeutic benefit.’ For Dr. Kligman, cosmeceutical represented a topical preparation that is sold as a cosmetic but has performance characteristics that suggest pharmaceutical action. Cosmeceuticals are the fastest-growing segment of the personal care industry, and several topical treatments for conditions such as photoaging, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and hair damage have come into widespread use. Nanotechnology plays an import ...