Chapter 1 - Advances in nanobiomaterials for topical administrations: new galenic and cosmetic formulations

Abstract

Nanomaterials are systems with at least one external dimension in the size range of approximately 1–100nm (or 10−9–10−7m). Nanoscale modifies the chemical, physical, and biological properties of the raw material, resulting in a wide diversity of applications, for example, drug delivery, diagnostics, implants, biosensors, medical imaging, and tissue engineering. Among the cosmetic and galenic formulations for topical administration, nanomaterials are being employed with the purpose of protection of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) from degradation, to improve the local action and to avoid the API penetration into the bloodstream, thus reducing the risk of systemic effects and toxicity. The most popular nanomaterials for topical application are based on lipid or polymeric nanoparticles, while others containing metals are mainly used for diagnostic purposes and imaging analysis. Of particular relevance are those composed of biodegradable and biocompatible raw materials (so-called nanobiomaterials), making them attractive for the formulation of topical pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. This chapter summarizes the recent advances in nanobiomaterials and their applications in galenic and cosmetic formulations.