Nano- and microparticle-stabilized Pickering emulsions designed for topical therapeutics and cosmetic applications

Abstract

Pickering emulsions are systems composed of two immiscible fluids, which are stabilized by solid organic or inorganic particles. These solid particles include a broad range of particles that can be used to stabilize Pickering emulsions. An improved resistance against coalescence and lower toxicity, against conventional emulsions stabilized by surfactants, make Pickering emulsions suitable candidates for numerous applications, such as catalysis, food, oil recovery, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. In this article, we give an overview of Pickering emulsions focusing on topical applications. First, we reference the parameters that influence the stabilization of Pickering emulsions. Second, we discuss some of the already investigated topical applications of nano- and microparticles used to stabilize Pickering emulsions. Afterwards, we consider some of the most promising stabilizers of Pickering emulsions for topical applications. Ultimately, we carried out a brief analysis of toxicity and advances in future perspectives, highlighting the promising use of these emulsions in cosmetics and dermopharmaceutical formulations.

Keywords: Cosmetic; Microparticle; Nanoparticle; Pickering emulsion; Therapeutic; Topical.