Toward Application of Microsponges for Topical Drug Delivery: A Review

The sunscreen industry is a growing industry because of the increasing need for skin protection and increased awareness of the harmful effects of sunlight by the consumer. Day by day more effective sunscreen actives, novel cosmetics are added to the formulator’s repertoire. Microsponges hold a bright future due to their wide pharmaceutical application and unique property like high loading efficiency, small size, better target delivery and controlled release. Sunscreen should be long-lasting to reduce frequency of application and also should have less side effects; microsponges drug delivery helps reach reaching the goal of controlled and site-specific drug delivery. Microsponges enhance the safety and efficacy of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in sunscreens, cosmetics, and various over-the-counter skin preparations by minimizing side effects. This article includes the methods, evaluation, application, advantages, limitations and recent advancements in microsponges with respect to sunscreens. This study conducted a comprehensive review of all available information on Microsponges; it presents promising new therapeutic drug delivery with respect to sunscreens. Sunscreen agents are mostly unstable, hence microsponges help to extend product stability. According to review, patent activity signifies continued interest, suggesting significant potential for enhancing patient care.