Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN, NLC)
for innovative consumer
care & household products
RAINER H. MÜLLER1, SVEN STAUFENBIEL1, CORNELIA M. KECK1,2*
* Corresponding author
1. Freie Universität Berlin, Institut für Pharmazie, Department of Pharmaceutics, Biopharmaceutics and NutriCosmetics, Kelchstr. 31, 12169 Berlin, Germany
2. University of Applied Sciences Kaiserslautern, Applied Pharmacy, Campus Pirmasens, Carl-Schurz-Str
10-16, 66953 Pirmasens, Germany
Abstract
Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nano(structured) lipid carriers (NLC) are nanoparticles with a particle matrix composed of solid lipid or solid lipid blend, resp., introduced to the cosmetic market a little bit more than 5 years ago. They combine advantages of various traditional nanocarriers, e.g. chemical stabilization of labile actives and good skin compatibility. Dermal effects are adhesion leading to film formation (“invisible patch”), repair/re-inforcement of natural protective lipid film, occlusion and related effects of increased skin hydration and enhanced penetration of actives. Further they can be used for protection against UV and IR radiation in anti-aging. As cosmeceutical formulation the silver-nanolipid (sNLC) complex is effective against irritated, inflamed skin conditions and supportive in therapy of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
INTRODUCTION
In the last twenty years lipid nanoparticles (SLN, NLC) were developed which are characterized by the solid state of the lipid particle matrix, which nowadays are contained in many dermal cosmetic products since 2005. Meanwhile they are on their way into clinical phases for pharmaceutical products. They are derived from the nanoemulsions by replacing the liquid lipid (oil) by a solid lipid or a solid lipid blend. This article describes the rational behind the development of these delivery systems in the light of other nanoparticles, the basic technical features and highlights the differences between the 1st (SLN) and 2nd generation (NLC). The action and performance of the lipid nanoparticles on the skin are described, and from this derived their use in consumer care but also high level exclusive facial cosmetic products. Special emphasis is given to their protective effect on the skin by film formation (e.g. against environmental hazards, UV, IR), repair and re-enforcement of natural skin barrier which makes them ideal for cosmeceuticals products against irritated, itching skin and atopic dermatis. The first NLC product is presented being su ...
