In this study, we developed a 2-step delivery system to enhance transdermal permeation of quercetin and its glycoside rutin, an antioxidant. Liposome-in-hydrogel complex systems were prepared by incorporating ceramide liposomes, which consist of biocompatible lipid membranes, into cellulose hydrogel. We evaluated the encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release behavior, and skin permeability of formulations that remained stable for over 3 weeks. Rutin had greater encapsulation efficiency and better in vitro release properties than quercetin. However, quercetin demonstrated greater skin permeability than rutin. We also found that liposome-in-hydrogel complex systems (quercetin, 67.42%; rutin 59.82%) improved skin permeability of quercetin and rutin compared to control (phosphate buffer, pH 7.4) (quercetin, 2.48%; rutin, 1.89%) or single systems of hydrogel (quercetin, 31.77%; rutin, 26.35%) or liposome (quercetin, 48.35%; rutin, 37.41%). These results indicate that liposome-in-hydrogel systems can function as potential drug delivery systems to enhance transdermal permeation of the water-insoluble antioxidants quercetin and rutin.
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