Enhanced Bioavailability and Stability of Curcumin in Cosmeceuticals: Exploiting Droplet Microfluidics for Nanoemulsion Development

Curcumin (Cur), a natural polyphenolic compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, faces significant challenges in cosmeceutical applications due to its poor aqueous solubility and low bioavailability. Nanotechnology offers a promising approach to overcome these limitations and enhance the functionality of cosmetic formulations. In this work, Cur-loaded nanoemulsions (NEs) were developed using a droplet microfluidics technique to enhance Cur’s stability, bioavailability, and permeability for advanced cosmeceuticals. Various oils were screened for Cur solubility, with coconut oil demonstrating the highest capacity. Optimal oil-to-water flow ratios were determined to produce monodisperse NEs with controlled droplet sizes. Characterization via dynamic light scattering (DLS) revealed stable NEs with Z-potential values exceeding −30 mV at both room temperature and +4 °C for up to 21 days, indicating strong colloidal stability. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through DPPH assays, while in vitro permeability studies of the drug-loaded NEs after incorporation into suitable hydrogels, using Strat-M® membranes mimicking human skin, demonstrated significantly enhanced penetration of the encapsulated Cur. In sum, this work highlights the potential of droplet microfluidics as a scalable and precise method for producing high-performance Cur NEs tailored for cosmeceutical applications.