A CUTTING-EDGE alternative to traditional skin creams offers a promising new approach for treating inflammatory skin diseases. Recent research highlights the development of electrospun fiber patches loaded with hydrocortisone, which deliver sustained anti-inflammatory effects over 24 hours.
Unlike greasy creams that require multiple daily applications, these dry, non-greasy fiber mats release hydrocortisone continuously, reducing the need for frequent reapplication. The patches not only match but surpass traditional creams in their ability to permeate and retain hydrocortisone in human skin, suggesting enhanced efficacy.
Key experiments comparing the fiber patches to standard hydrocortisone creams demonstrated superior permeation and retention properties, with additional anti-inflammatory benefits confirmed in keratinocyte and human skin models. The fibers, made from polycaprolactone, a widely used and safe polymer, represent a significant step forward in controlled drug delivery for skin conditions.
This innovative approach could improve compliance and outcomes for patients suffering from chronic inflammatory skin conditions.
With further development, these patches may reshape how inflammatory skin diseases are managed, offering healthcare professionals and patients an effective, convenient, and longer-lasting treatment option.
Reference: Gürtler AL et al. Electrospun fiber patches for inflammatory skin diseases – Correlating in vitro drug release with ex vivo permeation. Biomater Adv. 2025;166:214068.
