LAUSR

Graphical abstract Figure. No Caption available. Abstract The objective of this work was to investigate and profoundly characterize low‐energy nanoemulsions as multifunctional carriers, with slight reference to dermal administration. An evidence‐based approach was offered for deepening the knowledge on their formation via spontaneous emulsification. Curcumin, a compound of natural origin, potentially powerful therapeutic, was chosen as a model API. Due to curcumin's demanding properties (instability, poor solubility, low permeability), its potentials remain unreached. Low‐energy nanoemulsions were considered carriers capable of overcoming imposed obstacles. Formulation consisting of Polysorbate 80 and soybean lecithin as stabilizers (9:1, 10%), medium‐chain triglycerides as the oil phase (10%) and ultrapure water was selected for curcumin incorporation in 3 different concentrations (1, 2 and 3 mg/mL). Physicochemical stability was demonstrated during 3 months of monitoring (mean droplet size: 111.3–146.8 nm; PDI < 0.2; pH: 4.73–5.73). Curcumin’s release from developed vehicles followed Higuchi's kinetics. DPPH (IC50 = 0.1187 mg/mL) and FRAP (1.19 ± 0.02 mmol/g) assays confirmed that curcumin acts as a potent antioxidant through different mechanisms, with no alterations after incorporation in the formulation. High biocompatibility in line with antigenotoxic activity of curcumin‐loaded formulations (protective and reparative) was estimated through Comet assay. A multidisciplinary approach is needed to fully characterize developed systems, directing them to more concrete application possibilities.