Acne, a skin condition that affects approximately 9% of teenagers and adults globally, has long been a source of distress for those who suffer from it.

It can lead to feelings of embarrassment, anxiety, and even social isolation. Many turn to over-the-counter (OTC) treatments in hopes of finding relief. However, while these products might offer temporary solutions, they often fall short of providing lasting results for many individuals.

But now, thanks to the efforts of Australian scientists, there might be a new and effective solution on the horizon.

UniSA Researchers Revolutionize Acne Treatment with Nanotechnology

Researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA) have made a significant breakthrough in acne treatment. They've encased a novel antibacterial compound, Narasin, inside minuscule nanoparticles, each being 1000 times smaller than a human hair strand. When this Narasin-loaded nanoparticle is applied as a gel to acne-affected areas, it has shown remarkable results.

Traditionally, Narasin has been employed in the livestock sector to treat bacterial infections. However, when applied in this innovative nanocarrier form to combat acne, it not only fights drug-resistant acne bacteria but also shows a 100-fold increase in absorption compared to its water-based counterpart. This exciting discovery has been detailed in the renowned journal, Nanoscale, in an article titled "Nanotechnology and narasin: a powerful combination against acne".

Fatima Abid, the lead author and a PhD student at UniSA, explained the significance of their findings. She mentions, "This is the first instance where nano-micelle formulations of Narasin have been formulated and tested." Expanding on the broader context, Abid states, “Acne affects nearly 9.4% of the global population, predominantly teenagers. It's not just a physical condition; it deeply impacts mental and emotional well-being, leading to reduced self-confidence and feelings of isolation.”

Given the potential side effects of oral acne medications and their poor water solubility, both patients and clinicians often favor topical treatments. This is where the new nanoparticle approach may revolutionize treatment options.

Professor Sanjay Garg, Abid’s mentor and a pharmaceutical scientist, emphasized the challenges in the current treatment landscape. He commented on the increasing antibiotic resistance and how many topical drugs fail to penetrate hair follicles, which are the primary acne sites. He said, "There's an urgent requirement to introduce antibacterial treatments that are both efficient and secure."

To further understand the performance of Narasin when encapsulated in nanoparticles, the team also assessed how effectively it penetrated different skin layers, using pig's ear skin as a model. Prof Garg noted, "The micelle formula was successful in transporting Narasin to the targeted acne spots, unlike the compound solution which couldn't breach through the skin layers."

This collaborative effort between researchers from UniSA, the University of Adelaide, and Aix-Marseille Université in France promises a new dawn for acne treatments, potentially offering relief to millions suffering from this condition.

Innovations in the Nanotech Landscape

The nanotech industry is already witnessing significant advancements thanks to emerging startups. One standout brand in this realm is Smooto, a digital-first skincare brand that offers a diverse range of products, from lipsticks and eye shadows to serums, sunscreens, and lotions. What sets Smooto apart is their claimed use of liposomal nanotechnology in their product formulations. Their innovative approach has been rewarded with an impressive annual revenue of USD $20 million.

Conclusion

The fusion of nanotechnology with healthcare and skincare is unlocking doors to transformative solutions. With academia and startups both steering the charge, the horizon appears brighter for those seeking advanced, efficient treatments. As we move forward, it's evident that the confluence of research, innovation, and entrepreneurship will reshape our approach to tackling longstanding challenges, bringing hope and relief to many.

COMPANIES TO WATCH:

Smooto, ARIZ Precision Medicine, FabricNano

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Author:

Arnold Kristoff

Content Producer and Writer

Nano Magazine