Development of Carrageenan Hydrogel as a Sustained Release Matrix Containing Tocotrienol-Rich Palm-Based Vitamin E

Abstract

Topically applied hydrogel system as a general therapeutic mask for transdermal delivery of hydrophobic actives is not efficient due to the differences in polarity between the actives and the polymer network. This work presents a study on developing hydrogels based on carrageenan as a matrix for the delivery of a hydrophobic type of active, i.e. tocotrienol-rich palm-based vitamin E (TRPE) into the skin. The strength and flexibility of the hydrogel were increased by the inclusion of guar gum, potassium citrate and glycerine. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results indicated a higher quantity of water in the hydrogel with glycerine while differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed three types of water molecules existed in the hydrogel. The hydrogel was non-irritating according to OECD Test Guideline No. 439 for in vitro skin irritation test. The hydrogel with TRPE fluids was able to permeate the polysulfone membrane and bioavailability of TRPE improved with the inclusion of PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil mixture. Therefore, a carrageenan-based hydrogel with locust bean, guar gum, glycerine, potassium citrate and TRPE was successfully developed with good strength and flexibility and without any potential irritancy. The good bioavailability of TRPE-loaded in the hydrogel can be used for skin care application.

Chitosan and Carrageenan‐Based Biocompatible Hydrogel Platforms for Cosmeceutical, Drug Delivery, and Biomedical Applications

“…For example, carrageenan hydrogels were fabricated by Yee et al that successfully regulated release of tocotrienol-rich palm (TRP) based vitamin E. TRP based vitamin E prevent harm caused by UV radiations on skin. [244] Modified carrageenan demonstrated greater flexibility with by incorporation of guar gum, glycerin, and potassium citrate. The in vitro skin irritation tests revealed its non-irritating character.…”

Microspheres Based on Blends of Chitosan Derivatives with Carrageenan as Vitamin Carriers in Cosmeceuticals

“…Jiao et al (2018) received chitosan-coated liposomes with the encapsulation of vitamin C and folic acid as a delivery system for the antioxidant system [28]. Yee et al (2016) obtained carrageenan hydrogels as a sustained release matrix for the delivery of tocotrienol-rich palm-based vitamin E [29]. Kasapis et al (2015) developed a carrier of ĸ-carrageenan/glucose syrup to control the release of thiamin (Vitamin B1) [30].…”