Vitamin D-Loaded Lipid Nanoparticles for Potential Treatment of Vitiligo: Preparation, Optimization, and In Vitro Characterization

Vitamin D ₃ -loaded lipid nanoparticles (Vit D ₃ -LNP), integrated into an azulene cream, were developed to enhance the topical delivery and stability of Vitamin D ₃ . The LNP was formulated using a lipid mixture and hot homogenization-ultrasonication, with comprehensive characterization revealing a particle size of 153.9 nm, a high zeta potential (-54.3 mV), and a PDI of 0.216, which TEM confirmed. Encapsulation efficiency was high (96.98%), indicating successful incorporation of Vitamin D ₃ within the lipid matrix. Stability studies revealed the impact of light exposure on Vitamin D ₃ degradation. In vitro, release, and skin penetration studies using Franz diffusion cells and two-photon microscopy demonstrated enhanced drug permeation and retention in deeper skin layers with the cream formulation. Cell Viability test confirmed high cell viability (~80–100%) for both free Vitamin D ₃ and the LNP formulation; also inflammation test showed a significant reduction in ROS levels with Vitamin D ₃ -LNP treatment. These findings highlight the therapeutic value of LNP in managing conditions like Vitiligo, providing insights into the design of stable, effective Vitamin D ₃ delivery systems for dermal applications, and offering a promising approach for advanced skin treatments.