Tailored Limonene-Based Nanosized Microemulsion: Formulation, Physicochemical Characterization and <i>In-vivo</i> Skin Irritation Assessment
Mohammed M. Mehanna, Kawthar K. Abla, Hoda A. Elmaradny
Abstract
Purpose: Microemulsion (ME) achieved progressing consequences on both the research and industry levels due to their distinctive properties. ME based-limonene system is considered as a surrogate to the traditional microemulsion composed of conventional oils. Thus, a novel microemulsion based on D-limonene and Gelucire 44/12 had been designed and evaluated with assessing the factors affecting its physicochemical characteristics and in vivo skin irritation. Methods: The impact of microemulsion components and ratios on the isotropic region of the pseudo-ternary phase diagram was investigated. The optimal formula was evaluated in terms of percentage transmittance, average globule size, size distribution, zeta potential, microscopical morphology, stability under different storage conditions and its effect on the mice ear skin.