Transferosome Based Delivery of Phytoconstituents in Superficial Fungal Infections: A Comprehensive Review

Superficial fungal infections, such as dermatophytosis, candidiasis, and pityriasis versicolor, are common worldwide and often affect the quality of life. Their incidence is increasing due to factors such as climate change, global travel, and the extensive use of immunosuppressive therapies. Conventional antifungal agents, including azoles and allylamines, face limitations such as drug resistance, poor skin penetration, and adverse effects. Plant-derived phytoconstituents contain several bioactive compounds with promising antifungal activity; however, their topical use is restricted because of their low permeability through the stratum corneum. Transferosomes, highly flexible lipid vesicles, offer an effective strategy for enhancing the skin delivery of phytoconstituents. This review explains the basic principles of transferosomes technology, discusses the antifungal activities of various plant-derived phytoconstituents, and reviews preparation methods, characterization techniques, and findings from in vitro and in vivo studies. This study aimed to highlight the potential of transferosomes as a novel and efficient approach for delivering phytoconstituents to treat superficial fungal diseases. Keywords: antifungal, drug delivery, fungal infections, phytoconstituents, topical treatment, transferosomes