Enhanced stability, permeability, and bioavailability of hydrophobic compounds in cosmetics through a time-efficient and convenient prenanoemulsion technology

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While some cosmetic hydrophobic compounds have superior physiological activities, their formulation applications are limited due to low water solubility, stability, and bioavailability. This study employed pre-cationic nanoemulsion (PCNE) as a matrix to directly encapsulate fat-soluble raw materials through one-step high-pressure homogenization to simplify the nanoemulsion preparation process and reduce preparation time. The PCNE exhibited a spherical structure with small particle size (<100 nm) and high encapsulation efficiency (mostly > 90%), demonstrating excellent stability before and after encapsulating the raw materials. The antioxidant activity, in vitro release, and in vitro permeation of glabridin pre-cationic nanoemulsion (GLA-PCNE) were investigated. The experimental results revealed that GLA-PCNE possessed significantly enhanced DPPH radical scavenging ability compared to the free compound while exhibiting improved skin permeation properties; furthermore, it demonstrated controlled release characteristics. Based on these findings, PCNE hold promise as potential nanocarriers for expedited and convenient delivery of hydrophobic ingredients in cosmetic applications.