Lipid Nanomaterials for Targeted Delivery of Dermocosmetic Ingredients: Advances in Photoprotection and Skin Anti-Aging

Abstract

Despite the health benefits of the sun, overexposure to solar radiation without proper precautions can cause irreversible damage to exposed skin. In the search for balance between the risks and benefits of exposure to solar radiation in human health, a technological alternative was found, the incorporation of photoprotective products in lipid nanoparticulate systems for topical application. These nanometric systems have demonstrated several advantages when used as adjuvants in photoprotection compared to chemical and/or physical sunscreens alone. The increase in the sun protection factor (SPF), photostability and UV action spectrum are parameters that have benefited from the application of these systems in order to increase the effectiveness and safety of photoprotective formulations containing organic and/or inorganic sunscreens.

Keywords: lipid nanofilms; solar photoprotection; sun exposure; ultraviolet radiation.

Figure 1

Schematic representation of face segments (left-hand side) and of facial wrinkles affecting the three segments: superior, medium and inferior (right-hand side).

Figure 2

Schematic representation of texture transformations of the skin.

Figure 3

Schematic representation of the synthesis of pro-vitamin D3 from 7-dehydrocholesterol induced by UVB radiation.

Figure 4

Schematic representation of the penetration of UVA, UVB and UVC rays. Approximately 90% of UVB rays and virtually all UVC rays are absorbed by the ozone layer (O₃), oxygen (O₂) from the air and water (H₂O) in the Earth’s atmosphere. UVA accounts for 95% of the UV radiation that reaches the earth’s surface.

Figure 5

Schematic representation of the morphology of liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers, depicting the location of the drug (blue dots for hydrophilic drugs and green dots for more lipophilic drugs) in each of the systems.