Formulation and characterization of nanosized carriers as potential platforms for topical delivery of antioxidants

Skin is protected from the harmful effects of free radicals by the presence of
an endogenous antioxidant system. However, when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, there is an
imbalance between pro-oxidants and antioxidants, leading to oxidative stress and photoaging of the
skin. In order to prevent skin aging, use of topical antioxidants in different formulations is method of
choice in pharmaceutical industry. However, many bioactive substances are unstable when exposed to
light, lose activity during storage and possess low solubility and bioavailability. The aim of this study is
to present the advantages of incorporation of antioxidants into nanocarriers such as niosomes,
liposomes and nanoemulsions as an intriguing strategy to overcome listed limitations of antioxidants.