Development And Evaluation Of A Phytosomal Cream Containing Green Synthesized Gold Nanoparticles For The Management Of Air Pollution-Induced Inflammatory Skin Disorders

Abstract

This study focused on the green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using Curcuma longa extract and their integration with phytosome-based vesicular systems to develop a novel antioxidant and anti-inflammatory topical cream. Gold nanoparticles synthesized via varying concentrations of C. longa demonstrated a decrease in particle size and polydispersity with increasing extract volume, indicating effective capping and stabilization by phytoconstituents. Phytosomes were prepared using thin-film hydration with different extract-to-phospholipid ratios. PHY-3 (1:3) showed the most favorable properties with the smallest particle size (212.4 nm), highest entrapment efficiency (84.2%), and good stability. These phytosomes, when incorporated into creams with AuNPs, produced formulations (PC-1 to PC-3) exhibiting acceptable pH, increased viscosity, and improved spreadability, with PC-3 being the most optimized. In vitro studies demonstrated dose-dependent antioxidant activity, with PC-3 showing the highest DPPH inhibition (87.9%) and an IC₅₀ of 0.30%. Similarly, the protein denaturation assay revealed strong anti-inflammatory activity, with PC-3 exhibiting 84.3% inhibition and an IC₅₀ of 0.14%. The findings support the synergistic benefits of combining phytosomes and green-synthesized AuNPs in topical delivery systems, suggesting their promising application in skin protection against oxidative stress and inflammation. Further studies are warranted to validate their safety, efficacy, and long-term stability.