Advanced Skin Delivery of L-Arginine: Design, Characterization, and Anti-Aging Efficacy of Optimized Cubosomal Nanocarriers.

The purpose of this study was to develop a L-arginine-loaded cubosomal nanocarrier cream for topical anti-aging application. Glyceryl Monooleate and Poloxamer 407 cubosomes effectively encapsulated L-arginine, resulting in a nanosized structure (∼34.7 nm) with high entrapment efficiency (71.67 ± 0.81%). Optimal drug content (96 ± 0.08%), ideal viscosity (19,666 cps), and skin-compatible pH (6.4 ± 0.3) were obtained when incorporated into a cream base containing almond oil, Cosmacol ELI, and Sepineo P600. Formulation physiochemical compatibility was confirmed by FTIR and DSC study, sustained drug release (78.92% over 6 hours) shown by <i>in vitro</i> release study. Reduced TNF-α expression indicated that the formulation did not elicit any pro-inflammatory response, whereas cell viability was found to be above 80%. Reduced MMP-1 and increased collagen I gene levels demonstrated anti-aging efficacy. Over a six-month period, stability studies confirmed that there was no phase separation. Overall, the cubosomal cream showed outstanding entrapment, stability, safety, and anti-aging potential, offering a promising non-invasive cosmeceutical approach for skin rejuvenation.