Lipid nanocosmeceuticals: a novel approach to skin therapy for anti-aging and skin disorders

Abstract Background Psoriasis, eczema, fungal infections, and skin aging are prevalent dermatological conditions characterized by chronic inflammation, impaired skin barrier function, and a reduced quality of life. Conventional topical cosmetic treatments, however, are constrained by limited suboptimal efficacy, instability of active compounds, and inadequate skin penetration. The application of nanotechnology in cosmetics, known as nanocosmeceuticals, has emerged as a promising strategy to overcome these drawbacks. Lipid-based nanocarriers, including liposomes, phytosomes, niosomes, and solid lipid nanoparticles, facilitate site-specific delivery, enhance transdermal permeation, and protect bioactive constituents from degradation, improving therapeutic effectiveness. Main body This study aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of lipid-based nanocosmeceuticals for the prevention and treatment of skin aging and related dermatological disorders, with particular emphasis on formulation strategies, therapeutic efficacy, and safety considerations. This work presents a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed studies addressing the physicochemical properties, delivery strategies, and both in vitro and in vivo performance of lipid-based nanocarriers in dermatological applications. Studies show lipid-based nanocarriers exhibit minimal toxicity, enhanced stability, and controlled, sustained release profiles, with the added ability to deliver active compounds to targeted skin sites. Reported benefits include improved skin hydration, reduced wrinkles, and more effective management of psoriasis, eczema, and microbial infections. Their high entrapment efficiency and capacity for co-delivery of multiple drugs further strengthen their potential as versatile platforms for dermatological therapy. Conclusion Lipid-based nanocosmeceuticals represent novel and versatile platforms that provide both cosmetic and therapeutic benefits. They hold strong potential to transform dermatological care through enhanced efficacy and improved safety; however, large-scale clinical trials and regulatory harmonization remain essential to enable their successful translation into clinical practice. Graphical abstract