Formulation optimization and performance evaluation of a SNEDDS-enabled moisturizing cream containing serum pearls

The Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems have emerged over the last few years as a modern and effective strategy to improve the apparent solubility, dissolution rate, and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. SNEDDS consists of isotropic, anhydrous mixtures of oils, surfactants, and co-surfactants that are characterised by a spontaneous formation of fine oil-in-water nano-emulsions after their mild agitation in aqueous media. The resultant nanosized droplets (<200 nm) bring about an increase in surface area for rapid absorption, thus improving therapeutic performance. The review comprehensively discusses the fundamentals on SNEDDS, including formulation components, the mechanism of spontaneous emulsification, preparation methods, characterisation techniques, and evaluation of thermodynamic stability. Besides that, pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications, including the enhancement of bioavailability, mucus permeation, biomolecule delivery, topical and transdermal systems, and incorporation into hydrogel and serum pearls, are highlighted. Despite these advantages, challenges relating to surfactant concentration, cost of formulation, and In vitro -in vivo correlation persist. Overall, SNEDDS is a promising, versatile platform for both drug delivery and cosmeceutical development.