Harnessing Ascorbyl Palmitate Vesicles (Aspasomes) for Multifunctional Therapeutics and Cosmeceuticals: A Review

NANO CARRIERS  ^1,2,3,4

The use of particulate systems as carriers for both small and large molecules in drug delivery has attracted a lot of research attention in recent decades. A promising physical method for altering and improving the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of different drug compounds is the use of nanocarriers. Precise control over particle size, surface properties, and drug release profiles are the main goals when designing nanocarriers as drug delivery systems. Improved therapeutic potential is provided by vesicles that combine biological activity or targeted delivery with carrier functions. Adding antioxidant-rich amphiphilic compounds to these vesicles could lead to new treatment options for illnesses associated with reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress.

ASPASOMES ^5,6,7

By their initial publication in 2004, Gopinath and colleagues laid the groundwork for further research by identifying aspasomes for the first time. Ascorbyl palmitate (AP) makes up the majority of these bilayered vesicles. To improve stability and performance, their formulation frequently incorporates extra ingredients like cholesterol and negatively charged phospholipids like dicetyl phosphate. A crucial antioxidant, ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is present in human plasma and cell membranes, where it aids in the regeneration of α-tocopherol and the neutralisation of reactive oxygen species like superoxide and peroxides. Ascorbyl palmitate is produced by a conventional esterification process between the carboxylic group of palmitic acid and the primary alcohol group of ascorbic acid. A more stable and lipophilic form of ascorbic acid, ascorbyl palmitate improves skin penetration and is particularly helpful for topical applications.

Fig 1 STRUCTURE OF ASPASOME

ADVANTAGES OF ASPASOMES.^8,9

• Ascorbyl palmitate, a stable derivative of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which has potent antioxidant properties, makes up the majority of aspasomes. They are therefore efficient at scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS).
• Ascorbyl palmitate in aspasomes provides more chemical stability than free ascorbic acid, particularly against oxidation.
• As ascorbyl palmitate is lipophilic, it increases skin permeability, which makes aspasomes appropriate for topical or transdermal drug delivery.
• As aspasomes are typically made of non-toxic and biocompatible materials, they can be used safely in cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications
• Aspasomes can provide controlled or prolonged drug release by encapsulating hydrophilic and lipophilic medications.
• In addition to increasing skin elasticity by encouraging collagen synthesis, ascorbyl palmitate (AP)-enriched aspasomes also improve the solubility and skin penetration of encapsulated active ingredients and effectively hydrate the skin.

DISADVANTAGES OF ASPASOMES ^10,11

• Despite being an antioxidant, ascorbyl palmitate (AP) can have prooxidant effects at high concentrations that could negate its positive effects and cause oxidative stress.
• Even though AP in aspasomes is more stable than ascorbic acid, it can still become somewhat unstable when exposed to higher temperatures, oxygen, light, or moisture. The formulation may gradually oxidise and discolour as a result of this instability. One important consideration is temperature, since higher temperatures can hasten oxidation.
• Light exposure, particularly UV light, can cause free radicals to form and further deteriorate AP. Over time, this affects the final product's stability and effectiveness.
• Certain aspasome formulations contain synthetic ingredients (such as lighteners) that can have cytotoxic side effects and cause skin sensitisation.
• Due to their poor water solubility, some payload medications (like idebenone or some anti-inflammatory drugs) may need to be formulated with organic solvents like ethanol. When applied topically, these solvents have the potential to irritate or inflame skin, particularly damaged skin.

PREPARATION OF ASPASOMES ^5,12,13

The thin-film hydration technique was used to create aspasomes in a nitrogen atmosphere.           9 mL of chloroform and 1 mL of methanol were used to dissolve a lipid mixture that contained ascorbyl palmitate:cholesterol in different molar ratios along with 10 mol% dicetyl phosphate. To create a thin lipid film, the solution was evaporated at 50°C with reduced pressure. At the same temperature, 10 mL of PBS (pH 7.4) containing the medication was used to hydrate this film. After being sonicated for two minutes at 50% ultrasonicator power, the resultant suspension was placed in vials that had been nitrogen-purged.

CHARACTERISATION OF ASPASOMES  ^14,15

For aspasomal formulation quality control, both during storage and after preparation, in vitro characterisation is crucial. Thermotropic behaviour, phase transition characteristics, surface morphology, vesicle size and distribution, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, drug encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro drug release profile are among the critical parameters evaluated.

ASPECTS IMPACTING ASPASOME PREPARATION ^16,17,18,19

Lipid Composition

Vesicle stability, bilayer thickness, and encapsulation characteristics are determined by the proportion of ascorbyl palmitate, cholesterol, and optional charged/neutral lipids (like dicetyl phosphate).

Dicetyl phosphate and other negatively charged lipids improve electrostatic repulsion and inhibit aggregation, while cholesterol gives aspasomes stiffness and stability.

System of Solvents and Formation of Films

Lipids can be dissolved to form thin films by using methanol and chloroform, usually in a 9:1 ratio.

Stable and uniform lipid film formation is guaranteed by rotary evaporation in an inert atmosphere (such as nitrogen) and at lower pressure.

Temperature and Hydration ²⁰

A buffer, usually phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), at physiological pH (approximately 7.4) is used for hydration.

Proper vesicle formation and lipid integration are dependent on the temperature of hydration and rotary evaporation, which is normally between 37 and 50°C.

Homogenisation and Sonication

Multilamellar vesicles can be broken down into smaller, more homogeneous unilamellar vesicles using probe or bath sonication.

Vesicle size and homogeneity are impacted by the sonication's duration, power, and temperature (e.g., 2–5 minutes at 4°C or ambient conditions).

VARIOUS APPLICATIONS OF ASPASOMES ^5,21,22

IN TOPICAL AND TRANSDERMAL DRUG DELIVERY ^23,24

Because of their distinct vesicular structure, which is primarily made of ascorbyl palmitate, aspasomes are becoming more and more recognised as cutting-edge nanocarriers for topical and transdermal drug delivery. They can effectively pass through the skin barrier because of their amphiphilic nature. Aspasomes small size and lipid makeup allow them to enter intercellular lipid pathways and integrate into the stratum corneum, improving drug transport into deeper skin layers or even into the systemic circulation. In contrast to conventional topical systems, aspasomal gels and formulations offer controlled and prolonged drug release. Consistent therapeutic levels are supported by this extended release, increasing efficacy and decreasing the frequency of application.

According to studies, aspasome-based delivery methods greatly increase bioavailability. In animal models, for instance, tizanidine-loaded aspasomes enhanced systemic absorption and increased steady-state flux by a factor of 4.4.Because aspasomes can encapsulate both hydrophilic and lipophilic medications, they can be used to co-deliver multiple active ingredients, like naproxen and idebenone, for synergistic anti-inflammatory effects. According to in vivo safety studies, aspasomal formulations are well tolerated and do not cause oedema or skin irritation, which makes them perfect for topical application over an extended period of time. Furthermore, ascorbyl palmitate's natural antioxidant qualities offer therapeutic advantages like improved anti-inflammatory activity and skin protection.

IN VACCINE DELIVERY ^25,26,27

Because they can encapsulate and protect both antigens and adjuvants, ascorbyl palmitate-based vesicular delivery systems known as aspsomes have promising potential in vaccine delivery. Although direct studies on aspasomes for vaccine delivery are still in their infancy, their potential is underscored by their resemblance to liposome-based systems, which are well-established in vaccine technology. Both hydrophilic (such as proteins or peptides) and lipophilic antigens or adjuvants can be encapsulated by aspsomes, which prevents degradation and permits controlled release. Similar to conventional liposomes, this improves antigen stability and immune response targeting. Their lipid makeup and nanoscale size enable robust immune activation, facilitate trafficking to lymph nodes, and support effective uptake by antigen-presenting cells.

Furthermore, ascorbyl palmitate's natural antioxidant qualities may lessen oxidative stress at the delivery site, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. A major benefit in vaccine design is that aspasomes' structural flexibility permits customisation of their size and lipid composition, potentially allowing for fine-tuning of the type and intensity of immune response. Because of their superior skin permeability and biocompatibility, they can also be used for non-invasive vaccine delivery methods like topical or transdermal patches, which could provide a needle-free vaccination option.

GENE DELIVERY: ²⁸

By providing defence against enzymatic breakdown and facilitating their uptake by target cells, aspsomes can function as efficient carriers of nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA. They are therefore a potentially useful tool for gene therapy applications.

COSMECEUTICALS ^29,30,31,32

Because of their antioxidant qualities and improved skin penetration capabilities, ascorbyl palmitate (a lipophilic derivative of vitamin C), cholesterol, and negatively charged lipids make up the majority of aspasomes, which are vesicles that have demonstrated great promise and a variety of uses in cosmeceuticals. Because ascorbyl palmitate shields skin cells from oxidative damage, aspasomes have potent antioxidant effects. This lessens wrinkles and the elasticity of the skin, two indications of ageing.Aspasome-containing formulations have been demonstrated to suppress aging-related enzymes such as collagenase and elastase, thereby encouraging the production of new collagen and skin renewal.

Their lipid and antioxidant composition promotes healthier skin by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Because of their capacity to scavenge free radicals, aspsomes also exhibit promise in shielding skin from environmental damage and photoaging.

 Aspasomes increase the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of incorporated actives in topical cosmeceuticals by improving their chemical stability, which is frequently unstable in conventional formulations.

DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING ^33,34

To improve their stability and controlled release, aspsomes can encapsulate a range of imaging agents, including fluorescent dyes and MRI contrast agents, within their lipid bilayer or aqueous core.

Their lipid makeup and nanoscale size enable targeted accumulation and deeper tissue penetration, enhancing imaging sensitivity and signal specificity.

Multiple agents can be added to aspasomes to enable multimodal imaging, which combines functional and anatomical diagnostics for a more accurate clinical evaluation.

NOSE TO BRAIN DELIVERY ^35,36,37,38

For targeted nose-to-brain delivery, the study created and contrasted intranasal formulations of favipiravir (FAV) loaded in niosomes (FAV-NIOs) and aspasomes (FAV-ASPs). Film hydration was used to prepare FAV-ASPs, whereas ethanol injection was used to prepare FAV-NIOs.

Both increased the solubility and permeability of favipiravir across the blood-brain barrier and generated appropriate nasal spray droplets (<200 µm). Higher drug diffusion from FAV-ASPs was demonstrated in ex vivo nasal tissue studies, and in vivo investigations verified superior brain targeting.

FAV-ASPs are a promising system for the efficient intranasal delivery of favipiravir in the treatment of neurological infections, as evidenced by the strong correlation between in vitro and in vivo data.

USES OF ASPASOMES IN VARIOUS DISEASES ^39,40

MUSCLE RELAXANT ⁴¹

(Khalil et al.) looks upon TZN's short half-life and restricted oral bioavailability, the authors created and refined tizanidine hydrochloride (TZN)-loaded aspasomes as a novel transdermal delivery method. They created aspasomes with ascorbyl palmitate, cholesterol, and Span 60 using a full factorial design, which produced nanoscale spherical vesicles with superior stability and high entrapment efficiency. Rat skin ex vivo tests showed a 4.4-fold increase in drug flux over unformulated TZN. Rats' in vivo pharmacokinetic analysis showed noticeably higher bioavailability than the commercially available oral formulation . The formulation's suitability for transdermal application and lack of irritation were validated by safety evaluations. These results lend credence to the optimised TZN-loaded aspasomes' potential as a successful transdermal delivery method that could lead to better therapeutic results and increased patient compliance. According to the authors, there is potential for this nanocarrier method to be used in clinical settings to treat skeletal muscle spasms.

SKIN WHITENING AGENT ⁴²

(Kar et al.) concentrated on the development and optimisation of aspasomes, a novel vesicular delivery system that incorporates quercetin (QZT) and ascorbyl palmitate (ASP). To accomplish a synergistic decrease in melanin synthesis, quercetin, a well-known tyrosinase inhibitor, was encapsulated within ASP-based bilayer vesicles along with cholesterol and negatively charged lipids. To maximise particle size, drug entrapment effectiveness, and stability, different formulations were created by adjusting the lipid composition and hydration conditions. When compared to free QZT solution, the optimised aspasomal gel showed noticeably improved transdermal penetration through excised rat skin. physiological analyses demonstrated advantageous characteristics, such as easy extrusion, good spreadability, and smooth texture, guaranteeing a useful and user-friendly application. Depigmentation studies conducted over a 30-day period revealed noticeable skin lightening without any indications of irritation or negative effects, while in vivo skin irritation studies verified the formulation's safety and well-tolerated nature. The aspasomal formulation's ability to retain its chemical and physical integrity for a minimum of three months was validated by stability testing.

The study concludes that aspasomes are a useful nanocarrier system for enhancing the dermal delivery and bioavailability of skin-lightening substances such as quercetin. This platform has encouraging potential for treating hyperpigmentation and related conditions in dermatology and cosmetics.

ANTIFUNGAL EFFECT ^43,44

(Lamie et al.) wants to improve antifungal efficacy for diseases like dermatitis with candidiasis, tinea corporis, and tinea versicolour, so the author created a topical itraconazole (ITZ)-loaded aspasomal cream. Aspasomes were used to enhance localised drug delivery, skin penetration, and retention. In comparison to both lower concentrations and traditional ITZ creams, the optimised formulation with 0.5% ITZ showed superior therapeutic outcomes, achieving a complete clinical cure and negative fungal cultures in 10 days. After four weeks of treatment, 90% of patients with tinea infections had complete clinical clearance and fungal element elimination. By improving ITZ deposition in the skin, the aspasomal system made it possible to treat patients with half the concentration of conventional 1% ITZ creams. Clinical tests validated the formulation's safety, showing excellent patient compliance and no reported irritation or negative effects. These findings imply that, in comparison to conventional formulations, ITZ-loaded aspasomal cream provides better drug targeting, increased efficacy, and decreased systemic exposure. In particular, where improved skin penetration and lower dosage are essential for therapeutic success, the study concludes that this novel delivery system offers a promising, safe, and effective topical antifungal therapy, making it a valuable alternative for the treatment of superficial fungal infections.

(Patil et al.)  Using a 3² factorial design, the author created and refined an aspasomal gel loaded with voriconazole (VRC) for topical antifungal treatment. Aspasomes were created by thin-film hydration using different ascorbyl palmitate and cholesterol concentrations, resulting in vesicles with a 171 nm diameter and an 81% entrapment efficiency. When added to a Carbopol 934 gel, a stable, skin-friendly formulation with the right pH and viscosity was created. Studies conducted in vitro and ex vivo showed improved skin penetration and sustained drug release (94% over 24 hours). The gel's promise as a safe, efficient topical treatment was demonstrated by its superior antifungal activity against Candida albicans when compared to a commercial product and its non-irritating nature.

ANTI INFLAMMATORY AGENT ^45,46

(Fatih Hozan et al.) wants to improve the solubility, stability, and therapeutic effectiveness of baicalein—a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoid—the authors created aspasomal formulations loaded with baicalein. Particle size (~425 nm), zeta potential (~-38 mV), polydispersity, encapsulation efficiency (~40%), and release profile (~85%) were all assessed for five formulations. A Carbopol 980 gel was mixed with the ideal aspasomal formulation. The formulation maintained its physicochemical characteristics for three months at 4°C, according to stability tests. Baicalein was effectively delivered by cell permeation studies, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory assays revealed notable activity, albeit less than that of the reference medication indomethacin. Biocompatibility was confirmed by cytotoxicity tests on RAW 264.7 cells. The authors come to the conclusion that baicalein-loaded aspasomes are a promising topical delivery method that may be able to get around the drawbacks of current baicalein formulations while providing long-lasting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

(d’Avanzo et al.) created multidrug-loaded aspasomes that included naproxen and idebenone. Ascorbyl palmitate-based vesicles were used to formulate the aspasomes, which did not compromise stability or physicochemical properties while maintaining a narrow size distribution, high entrapment efficiencies (~50% for idebenone and ~75% for naproxen), and a stable nanoscale size (<160 nm). The controlled, continuous release of both medications over a 24-hour period was confirmed by in vitro studies. Excellent safety and tolerability were shown by keratinocyte viability assays and in vivo testing on healthy human volunteers. The co-loaded aspasomal formulation provided quicker and more efficient symptom relief by significantly reducing chemically induced erythema when compared to commercial Naprosyn gel. Idebenone's prolonged antioxidant action and quick naproxen release were credited with the improved therapeutic outcome. All things considered, the results show that co-loaded aspasomes have the potential to be a sophisticated, safe, and efficient nanocarrier system for the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders.

SKIN CANCER ⁴⁷

( Lamie et al ) created itraconazole (ITZ)-loaded aspasomal nanocarriers that included ascorbyl palmitate (AP). AP was chosen for its antioxidant and lipophilic qualities, which contributed to both vesicle formation and therapeutic enhancement.

The optimised aspasomal cream had a nanoscale particle size (~68 nm), high entrapment efficiency (>95%), and excellent colloidal stability. In vitro tests revealed that the AP-enriched formulation significantly increased ITZ's cytotoxicity against A431 epidermoid carcinoma cells, which was attributed to the synergistic antioxidant activity of AP. In vivo evaluation in mice with Ehrlich carcinoma revealed a 62.68% tumour weight reduction after topical application of the ITZ-aspasomal cream, compared to only 14% with a conventional ITZ cream. The aspasomal delivery system supported greater drug deposition at the tumour site and superior therapeutic efficacy by achieving improved dermal targeting and enhanced skin penetration. Crucially, there were no indications of toxicity or irritation, and the formulation was well tolerated. According to these results, aspasomes loaded with ITZ/AP appear to be a promising nanocarrier platform for localised, non-invasive treatment of skin cancer. The method has great potential for clinical translation and commercialisation in advanced dermatological oncology, in addition to improving drug bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes.

ACNE TREATMENT ⁴⁸

(Amer et al.) encapsulated quercetin in innovative vitamin C-based nanovesicles called aspasomes, this study aimed to increase the therapeutic potential of quercetin for the treatment of acne. In order to overcome quercetin's restricted skin permeability, the aspasomes demonstrated a nanoscale size range of 125–184 nm, negative surface charge, and effective skin deposition (~40%), all while preserving the antioxidant activity of the compound. According to in vitro research, quercetin-loaded aspasomes showed no cytotoxic effects on skin fibroblast cells and a markedly higher antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes than free quercetin. A 77.9% decrease in inflammatory lesions, an 11.8% decrease in comedones, and a 55.3% overall decrease in total acne lesions were among the positive results of an exploratory clinical trial that involved 20 acne patients. The formulation was deemed well-tolerated by the participants, who also reported no irritation. These results imply that aspasomes offer a safer and more effective substitute for traditional therapies by greatly enhancing the delivery and effectiveness of quercetin in the treatment of acne. The potential of nutraceutical-based nanoformulations in dermatology is highlighted by the maintained antioxidant activity, enhanced antibacterial activity, and positive clinical results. Quercetin-loaded aspasomes may be useful in treating oxidative and inflammatory skin conditions other than acne, opening the door to more widespread use in therapeutic dermatology and skincare.

 RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS ⁴⁹

(Ghosh et al.) wants to enable efficient transdermal delivery for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), so the authors created an aspasomal hydrogel loaded with methotrexate (MTX) and containing ascorbyl palmitate (ASP). To create an effective formulation, they used a factorial design to optimise drug loading, hydration parameters, and lipid molar ratios. Particle size of 386.8 nm, high drug loading (19.41%), negative zeta potential, and continuous drug release for 24 hours were all displayed by the optimised aspasomes. Important therapeutic results were found during in vivo testing in Wistar rats with an adjuvant-induced arthritis model. Paw swelling was reduced by 21.25% after treatment with the MTX aspasomal hydrogel. Additionally, the levels of the liver enzymes SGOT (40.43%) and SGPT (54.75%) were significantly reduced, and the inflammatory cytokines TNF-α (33.99%) and IL-1β (34.79%) were suppressed. Histopathological analysis revealed a reduction of inflammation, pannus formation, bone resorption, and cartilage preservation of more than 80%. Blank aspasomes had no therapeutic effect, but the aspasomal hydrogel performed noticeably better than free MTX. These findings demonstrate the potential of MTX-loaded aspasomes as a controlled-release, non-invasive transdermal treatment for RA.Compared to traditional oral or injectable MTX therapies, this delivery method may provide better disease modification, increased therapeutic efficacy, and decreased systemic toxicity, making it a viable substitute for long-term RA treatment.

PSORIASIS ⁵⁰

(Shinde et al.) created an aspasomal gel loaded with mometasone furoate to treat psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition. Film hydration was used to prepare the aspasomes, and a factorial design was used to optimise the vesicle size (~283 nm), encapsulation efficiency (~75%), and zeta potential (-20 mV). When the aspasomes were added to carbopol gel, their pH, viscosity, and spreadability were all appropriate. Compared to marketed cream, which has a 5-hour sustained release profile, in vitro drug release demonstrated a 24-hour sustained release profile. Drug depot formation in the epidermis was confirmed by ex vivo skin penetration studies. Safety was supported by in vivo testing in Wistar rats, which showed no signs of skin irritation or inflammation. The ferric reducing assay was used to verify the antioxidant activity of the gel. Overall, this aspasomal gel improves the delivery of mometasone furoate, extends the duration of drug release, decreases the frequency of dosing, and presents a promising new strategy for topical psoriasis treatment that is both patient-friendly and effective.

ANDROGENIC ALOPECIA ⁵¹

(Hatem et al.) in order to treat androgenic alopecia (AGA), this study concentrated on creating new vitamin C-based nanovesicles, known as aspasomes, that are loaded with melatonin. For topical delivery to be effective, the aspasomal formulation demonstrated favourable physicochemical properties, such as optimal particle size, surface charge, drug entrapment efficiency, antioxidant capacity, and physical stability. Ex vivo skin deposition tests verified effective drug penetration and retention within the skin layers, while in vitro release studies showed sustained melatonin release. Hair pull tests, histometric analysis, and dermoscopic imaging were used to clinically assess the effectiveness of melatonin-loaded aspasomes in AGA patients. The aspasomal treatment considerably increased hair density and thickness, decreased hair loss, and provided unmistakable photographic proof of scalp health and hair regrowth when compared to melatonin solution. These results demonstrate the aspasomal formulation's superior bioavailability and therapeutic potential over traditional therapies. All things considered, melatonin vitamin C-based aspasomes offer a promising cosmeceutical approach to treating androgenic alopecia. Their proven clinical and pharmacological efficacy motivates more research into their use in other dermatological disorders where oxidative stress is a significant factor.

MELASMA ⁵²

(Mona Hassan Aboul-Einien et al.) authors created aspasomes loaded with magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP), a stable vitamin C derivative. An ideal cream-based formulation was chosen after several formulations were evaluated for skin penetration, entrapment effectiveness, and particle size. In comparison to gels and unmodified aspasomes, this MAP aspasomal cream showed better skin penetration and retention. In clinical settings, it outperformed 15% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels and markedly improved melasma severity scores. No negative side effects were reported, and about 35% of patients thought the results were excellent. According to the study, MAP aspasomal cream is a novel, safe, and efficient treatment option for melasma that offers better skin lightening, increased stability, antioxidant activity, and patient compliance compared to traditional chemical peels. For hyperpigmentation disorders, the authors suggest using it as a promising monotherapy.

SKIN AGING ⁵³

(Yücel et al.) in order to improve the topical delivery, antioxidant activity, and anti-aging effects of ferulic acid (FA), this study concentrated on creating aspasomes loaded with FA. The film hydration method was used to create aspsomes, which were then refined for important factors like stability, encapsulation effectiveness, and particle size. The optimised formulation produced spherical vesicles with a sustained drug release behaviour, an encapsulation efficiency of 58%, and an average size of 384 nm. Over a three-month period, stability tests verified that the lyophilised aspasomes maintained their chemical and physical properties. Studies on ex vivo skin penetration showed that aspasome-derived FA was substantially more able to penetrate and be retained than free FA. Deeper skin deposition was further validated by fluorescence microscopy. Additionally, the aspasomal gel demonstrated strong antioxidant properties and successfully inhibited the enzymes collagenase and elastase, which are closely linked to skin ageing. According to in vivo safety assessments, the formulation was safe for topical use and did not cause irritation. Overall, the findings imply that FA-loaded aspasomes present a viable dermal delivery nanocarrier system that can get around the drawbacks of traditional FA formulations. This formulation is a promising option for use in dermatological and cosmetic products due to its strong anti-aging properties, improved antioxidant protection, and improved skin delivery.

TABLE 1: VARIOUS ASPASOMAL FORMULATIONS AND THEIR EFFECT