Curcumin Delivery Systems for Inflammatory Skin Application: A Review

Abstract

Curcumin (CUR) is a low-molecular-weight polyphenolic compound extracted from the rhizomes of the herb Curcuma longa. It exhibits a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and antiviral effects. However, its poor solubility, low stability, and rapid metabolism significantly hinder its clinical application. In recent years, encapsulating drugs within natural polymer-based nanoparticle systems has significantly enhanced their penetration into deeper skin layers. Nanocarriers such as CUR-loaded nanoliposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and polymeric micelles have notably improved its pharmacological activity and prolonged its retention time. This review summarizes the applications of CUR delivery systems in the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases and discusses the potential anti-inflammatory biological mechanisms underlying their therapeutic effects.