Formulation and Characterization of Lycopene‐Loaded Microemulsion‐based Gel for the Management of Chronic Wound Healing

ABSTRACT Chronic wounds, especially in diabetic patients, often struggle to heal due to prolonged inflammation, oxidative stress, and poor tissue regeneration. Lycopene, a natural antioxidant found in tomatoes, has shown therapeutic potential in wound care, but its poor water solubility and thereby limited skin absorption have hindered its practical application. To overcome these limitations, this study aimed to develop a lycopene‐loaded microemulsion‐based gel (LMEG) for topical use. The formulation is prepared by optimizing a microemulsion using ethyl oleate, Tween 80, and PEG 400, and then integrating it into a gel matrix containing Konjac glucomannan (KGM) and carbopol 940. The resulting gel is evaluated for its physical properties, drug content, in vitro release, skin permeation, and wound healing efficacy in a diabetic rat model. The LMEG showed high drug encapsulation, good viscosity, and sustained drug release. In vivo results demonstrated complete wound closure by day 14, with restored epidermal structure, presence of skin appendages, and reduced inflammation. Biochemical studies revealed a significant decrease in inflammatory cytokines, lipid peroxidation, and glycation end‐products. The combined benefits of lycopene and KGM contributed to effective wound healing by addressing both inflammation and oxidative stress, indicating LMEG could be a promising topical therapy for chronic wound management.