Multifunctional Hyaluronic Acid Releasing Hydrogel Film With Nano/Micro Wrinkles: Thin Acne Patch for Localized Therapeutics

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is effective in reducing skin inflammation and sebum production in acne vulgaris. Localized treatment with HA involves rapid dissolving microneedle-based formulations to penetrate and release active ingredients. These causes discomfort and secondary wounds, which eventually aggravate inflammatory responses, thereby increasing the risk of scaring and pathogenesis. This study introduces HA hydrogel film-based thin acne patches made by crosslinking HA with hydrocolloid. These patches exhibit nano to micro scale wrinkle-like morphology, offering uniform adhesion to the skin without additional adhesives or microneedles. The transparent, adhesive, and pliable nature of the patches facilitates seamless integration with the skin. The moisture-retention, stability, breathability, and flexibility parameters ensure the skin mimicking properties enhancing patient compliance. The biphasic HA release facilitates prolonged antioxidant activity and superior bactericidal effects, proving its therapeutic efficacy. Further, the cytocompatibility studies ensure the safety, manifesting the usage in acne therapy. Moreover, the study also demonstrates the incorporation of active ingredients for providing a synergistic effect. This prototype paves the way for a promising localized treatment strategy in several dermatological diseases, indicating a potential future market.