Characterization of Nanoparticles in Dermal Formulations

Abstract

The characterization of nanoparticles in dermal formulations is challenging and there are several different aims to characterize nanoparticles in their respective dermal formulations. The major aim will be to observe the stability of the nanoparticles, i.e., to monitor if size, crystalline state, distribution of the particles within the vehicle and/or incorporation of the actives are maintained during the shelf life of the product. Another reason to characterize nanoparticles in dermal products might be derived from regulatory bodies, which might be interested to determine if a dermal product contains nanoparticles or not. Due to the diverse nature of the different nanocarriers being available today and due to the diverse characterization aims no standard procedure is available for this. Hence, for each type of formulations an individual analysis protocol needs to be established. The aim of this chapter is to provide a brief overview of the existing methods for the characterization of nanoparticles in dermal formulations and to provide basic information on how to characterize nanoparticles in dermal formulations on a day to day basis.