Bioadhesive hydrogels for cosmetic applications.

PARENTE, ME.; OCHOA ANDRADE, A.; ARES, G.; RUSSO, F.; JIMENEZ KAIRUZ, AF.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE (PRINT)

Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Año: 2015 vol. 37 p. 511 - 518

0142-5463

The use of bioahesive hydrogels for skin care presents important advantages such as long residence times on the application site and reduced product administration frequency. The aim of the present work was to develop bioadhesive hydrogels for skin application, using caffeine as a model active ingredient. Eight hydrogels were formulated using binary combinations of a primary polymer (carbomer homopolymer type C or kappa carrageenan potassium salt) and a secondary polymer (carbomer copolymer type B, xanthan gum or guar gum).Hydrogels were characterized by means of physico-chemical (dynamic rheological measurements, spreadability and adhesion measurements) and sensory methods (Napping® in combination with a check-all-that-apply -CATA- question). Caffeine hydrogels were formulated using two of the most promising formulations regarding adhesion properties and sensory characteristics. In vitro active ingredient release studies were carried out. Both hydrogels presented similar release profiles which were well described by the Higuchi model. Caffeine release was exclusively controlled by a diffusive process. In summary, bioadhesive hydrogel formulations presenting appropriate physico-chemical and sensory characteristics were obtained.