A narrative review on nanogel-based topical delivery of chemotherapeutic and phytoagents for non- melanoma skin cancer treatment

Introduction Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC) arises from oxidative stress induced by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, ongoing inflammation, and genetic mutations that promote cell growth. Mainstream treatment often faces challenges of recurrence and toxicity, highlighting the necessity for more targeted therapies. Incorporation of multiple drugs with advanced nanotechnology appears to emerge as a promising therapeutic approach.Areas covered This review analyses the effectiveness of multifactorial interventions for NMSC, addresses limitations with traditional treatments, highlighting how advanced technologies can overcome these challenges. The literature search was conducted through trusted databases to identify the included studies for systematically categorization, mechanistic understanding, formulation innovations and traditional relevance.Expert opinion This article examines the progress in nanogel-based systems for NMSC treatment over decades, emphasizing their adaptable design, stimulus responsiveness, and targeted drug delivery. These features enhance treatment effectiveness while reducing overall toxicity. It discusses a delivery system incorporating combinations of synthetic drugs and plant-derived compounds by means of nanogel as a carrier, demonstrating synergistic anti-tumor effects and improved safety profiles, making the treatment more potent, effective, and comprehensive. Despite positive outcomes in preclinical studies, significant translational challenges persist in formulation development and manufacturing, including drug-excipient compatibility, stability, reproducibility, scalability of nanogels and meeting regulatory standards.