A Research on "Gel Formulation Advancement for Treatment of Beard and Scalp Fungal Infections"

Introduction: Current research focuses on the development and evaluation of a nanohydrogel formulation to treat scalp and beard fungal infections, common issues often linked to poor hygiene that can lead to hair loss. This formulation includes an advanced drug-delivery system that can improve local bioavailability, provide symptomatic relief, and sustain release. Scalp and beard fungal infections are difficult to manage with conventional formulations due to short residence time, poor penetration, and recurrent disease. Method: In this research, preformulation studies were performed, including particle size analysis, melting point, X-ray diffraction, and UV spectrophotometry for characterization. Itraconazole (antifungal) and mometasone (anti-inflammatory) nanoparticle was incorporated into gel by the solvent diffusion method. The gel was formulated by using different grades of Carbopol. The formulation was optimized based on physicochemical properties, viscosity, spreadability, and drug release behaviour. Antifungal efficacy was evaluated by the agar well diffusion method. Result: The optimized formulation results in a pH of 7.01 ± 0.1, a practical yield of 98% ± 0.5, and a viscosity of 3025.76 ± 33.88. Drug content was uniform, and spreadability was optimal. The particle size of nanoparticles was assessed through SEM and FT-IR, which ranges between 60 and 200 nm. The crystallinity of the nanoparticles was assessed by PXRD. The antifungal activity was evaluated using a Nano-gel Franz diffusion cell. The zone of inhibition against Tinea Capitis & Tinea barbae was found to be 23.30±0.57mm & 30.10±0.57 mm, respectively. Drug release was measured by UV-spectrophotometry. Discussion: The present research addresses the limitations of conventional antifungal therapies by developing a nano-hydrogel formulation specifically targeting fungal infections of the scalp and beard. Preliminary findings support the potential of nano-hydrogel systems to reduce dosing frequency, minimize local irritation, and achieve superior therapeutic outcomes. Conclusion: Results of performed research indicate that the prepared IZL & MSN Nano- Hydrogel formulation has superior efficacy, long-term effectiveness, improved patient acceptability, and significant potential against beard and scalp fungal infection at lower dosages with fewer side effects compared to conventional treatments.