Transdermal Liposomal Delivery Systems: Advantages, Applications, Challenges, And Prospects

Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS) provide a noninvasive method for delivering drugs directly to target sites, avoiding hepatic first-pass metabolism and reducing systemic side effects. However, the stratum corneum acts as a significant barrier to drug permeation. Liposomal delivery systems have gained attention due to their nanoscale size, biocompatibility, and high drug-loading capacity, which enhance drug penetration by interacting with skin lipids. Advances in nanotechnology have led to the development of various liposomal formulations like ethosomes and transfersomes, each designed for specific therapeutic needs. This review discusses the progress in liposome-based TDDS for treating skin and systemic diseases, their mechanisms, benefits, and potential for clinical application, while also addressing future challenges in the field.