Non-aqueous nanoemulsions as a new strategy for topical application of astaxanthin

Abstract

The application of astaxanthin is limited by its poor solubility and stability. In the present study, astaxanthin non-aqueous nanoemulsions (ASX-NANE) were developed by high-pressure homogenization method to combine advantages of nanocarriers and non-aqueous emulsions. ASX-NANE had a spherical morphology with a uniformed size distribution and a high entrapment efficiency (98.4 ± 0.3%). The analysis of FTIR indicated that astaxanthin was successfully encapsulated into the lipid core of ASX-NANE. This system was a stable emulsion system over a period of 4 weeks at 25 °C and could protect astaxanthin against degradation. In vitro cell study showed that ASX-NANE had a low toxicity and could protect cells against oxidative stress. In vitro permeation study and skin histological sections revealed the enhanced permeation of astaxanthin and the transformation of stratum corneum with a low systemic absorption and unchanged epidermis. Therefore, non-aqueous nanoemulsions might be an appropriate strategy for the topical application of astaxanthin.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords:

• Astaxanthin
• non-aqueous nanoemulsions
• stability
• skin penetration
• antioxidant activity

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.

Additional information

Funding

This investigation was supported by Science and Technology Achievements Transformation Project (grant No. BA2014096) of Jiangsu Province of China.