Occlusive Versus Nonocclusive Application in Transdermal Drug Delivery

Abstract

Breaching the barrier nature of the skin is the main strategy to enhance transdermal drug delivery. To achieve this, researchers employed different strategies developing alternative transdermal drug delivery systems. On doing this, minor attention was given to the method of application which can affect the integrity of the skin as well as the nature of the formulation. Occlusion can at least compromise the skin hydration which is one of the factors contributing to the barrier nature of the skin. Open application can lead to loss of volatile ingredients with subsequent change in the nature of delivery system. This effect may enhance or reduce the transdermal drug delivery from such formulations. This chapter will provide a review of the effect of topical application techniques on dermal and transdermal drug delivery.