Protective effect of a hydrogel containing Achyrocline satureioides extract-loaded nanoemulsion against UV-induced skin damage

•A topical hydrogel containing A. satureioides-loaded nanoemulsions was presented.•The main flavonoids from the extract were detected into the porcine ear skin in vitro.•Formulations demonstrated a protective effect against UVA/UVB radiation.•A decrease in the oxidative damage in porcine ear skin was detected in vitro.•Results were related with an additive effect between the nanocarrier and the extract.

Achyrocline satureioides is a medicinal plant widely used in South America that exhibits a well-documented antioxidant activity. Such activity has been related to their main aglycone flavonoids quercetin, luteolin, and 3-O-methylquercetin (3MQ). This study addresses the development of antioxidant hydrogels containing an A. satureioides extract-loaded nanoemulsions aimed at topical application. The systems investigated were A. satureioides extract-loaded nanoemulsions (ASNE) obtained by spontaneous emulsification procedure formulated in semisolid hydrogels composed of Carbopol® Ultrez 20 (HASNE). Hydrogels exhibit a non-Newtonian pseudoplastic behavior. A higher release of 3MQ from ASNE (3.61 μg/cm2/h) was observed when compared with HASNE (2.83 μg/cm2/h). Different parameters that may have an influence on the retention of flavonoids into the skin were investigated by using a Franz-type diffusion cells. Indeed, the amount of formulation applied on donor compartment was found to play a crucial role. At the optimized conditions, retention of approximately 2 μg/cm2 of flavonoids was detected into the skin. A higher retention of 3MQ was detected (approximately 1.0 μg/cm2) in comparison with the other flavonoids. Finally, a protection the porcine ear skin by formulations, against oxidative stress generated by UVA/UVB light was demonstrated by means of TBARS, protein carbonylation, and protein thiol content assays. The overall results showed the potential of the formulations developed in this study for the prevention of oxidative stress on the skin.

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