Topical use of resveratrol: technological aspects

Resveratrol is a natural polyphenolic phytoalexin found in grapes, berry skins, roots of Japanese knotweed and is reputed as an excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuro- and cardio- protective agent. Resveratrol has also beneficial effects in therapy of different skin conditions such as acne, exfoliative eczema, psoriasis and is known to provide a protection against ultraviolet radiation-mediated oxidative stress. However, its low oral bioavailability and short biological half- life compromise its beneficial therapeutic effects; therefore, its topical application is a practical approach in the treatment of various cutaneous disorders. Challenges associated with the development of topical resveratrol drug delivery systems and dosage forms include its low aqueous solubility as well as its poor UV-, pH- and temperature-dependent stability. The purpose of this article is to discuss the mechanism of action, therapeutic effect and physicochemical properties of resveratrol and to present recent technological approaches designed to improve its stability, bioavailability and therapeutic efficiency.