Gels for Skin Treatment and Wound Healing

A special issue of Gels (ISSN 2310-2861). This special issue belongs to the section "Gel Analysis and Characterization".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 March 2027 | Viewed by 4108

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Titu Maiorescu, 040441 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: pharmaceutical gels; wound healing; skin treatment

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Gels with gemmoderivatives represent a modern, natural approach to topical therapy, combining the benefits of gel formulations with the regenerative potential of plant stem cell extracts. Gemmoderivatives—also known as bud extracts—are obtained from the embryonic tissues of plants such as buds, young shoots, and rootlets. These tissues are rich in growth factors, enzymes, vitamins, and plant hormones that are often more concentrated than in mature plant parts.

In gel form, gemmoderivatives offer enhanced skin penetration and localized action. The gel base, typically water-based and non-greasy, allows for rapid absorption and a soothing, cooling effect on the skin. When combined with gemmotherapy extracts, such gels can promote tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing processes.

Commonly used plants in gemmotherapy gels include Ribes nigrum (blackcurrant) for its anti-inflammatory properties, Betula pubescens (birch) for detoxifying effects, and Ficus carica (fig tree) for its calming and balancing action on the skin and nervous system. These gels are widely used in naturopathy and complementary medicine to support musculoskeletal health, reduce joint or muscle pain, and address skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis.

Due to their natural origin and biocompatibility, gels with gemmoderivatives are generally well-tolerated, making them suitable for long-term use. However, the quality and standardization of extracts are essential to ensure efficacy. As interest in plant-based therapeutics continues to grow, gemmotherapeutic gels stand out as a promising option for holistic, targeted treatment.

Dr. Anca Daniela Raiciu
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • gels
  • hydrogels
  • gemmoderivatives
  • wound healing
  • skin treatment
  • gemmotherapy
  • anti-inflammatory
  • tissue regeneration

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Published Papers (3 papers)

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Research

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18 pages, 2725 KB  
Article
Ameliorative Effects of Liquiritin Carbomer Gel on Dinitrofluorobenzene-Induced Atopic Dermatitis in Mice
by Yun Zhang, Qiqing Tan, Sijia Li, Xiangdi Hu, Aoxiang Luo and Ming Li
Gels 2026, 12(4), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels12040328 - 14 Apr 2026
Viewed by 433
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by dryness and itching. Steroids are the most common therapeutic agents, may induce skin atrophy, and damage the skin barrier. Therefore, we need to find a safer alternative option. Liquiritin (LQ), a flavonoid [...] Read more.
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by dryness and itching. Steroids are the most common therapeutic agents, may induce skin atrophy, and damage the skin barrier. Therefore, we need to find a safer alternative option. Liquiritin (LQ), a flavonoid compound extracted from licorice rhizomes, possesses anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of LQ on AD, focusing on its potential skin barrier-protective and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. In this research, we prepared liquiritin carbomer gel (LQ-CG) and assessed its treatment effects on mice with AD triggered by 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB). It effectively attenuated AD progression by ameliorating skin lesions, decreasing epidermal thickness and mast cell infiltration, downregulating inflammatory cytokine levels, and restoring the expression of claudin-1, loricrin, and occludin. It also inhibited the release of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, and showed no significant toxicity to major organs in mice. In summary, our findings demonstrate that LQ-CG can effectively alleviate atopic symptoms by repairing the skin barrier and inhibiting inflammatory responses without causing significant changes in organ indices Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gels for Skin Treatment and Wound Healing)
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20 pages, 1154 KB  
Article
Development and Characterization of Topical Gels Containing Lipid Nanosystems Loaded with Echinacea purpurea
by Ramona-Daniela Pavaloiu, Georgeta Neagu, Adrian Albulescu, Mihaela Deaconu, Anton-Liviu Petrica, Corina Bubueanu and Fawzia Sha’at
Gels 2025, 11(10), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11100801 - 5 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1332
Abstract
This study explores an innovative delivery strategy for the management of skin conditions: lipid nanosystems incorporated into a gel matrix. Echinacea purpurea extract, known for its antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties, was encapsulated into lipid-based nanosystems and subsequently incorporated into Carbopol-based gel. The [...] Read more.
This study explores an innovative delivery strategy for the management of skin conditions: lipid nanosystems incorporated into a gel matrix. Echinacea purpurea extract, known for its antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties, was encapsulated into lipid-based nanosystems and subsequently incorporated into Carbopol-based gel. The extract, rich in chicoric and caftaric acids, exhibited strong antioxidant activity (IC50 = 56.9 µg/mL). The resulting nanosystems showed nanometric size (about 200 nm), high entrapment efficiency (63.10–75.15%), and excellent short-term stability. Superior biocompatibility of the nanosystems, compared to the free extract, was demonstrated using an MTS assay on L-929 fibroblasts. Moreover, the cytoprotective potential of the lipid carriers was evident, as pre-treatment significantly increased cell viability under H2O2-induced oxidative stress. These findings suggest that lipid-based encapsulation enhances the therapeutic profile of E. purpurea. The optimal lipid formulation was incorporated into a Carbopol-based gel, which demonstrated an appropriate pH (5.15 ± 0.75), favorable textural properties, sustained polyphenol release, and overall good stability. This research highlights the potential of plant-derived bioactives in the development of dermatocosmetic products, aligning with current trends in eco-conscious and sustainable skincare. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gels for Skin Treatment and Wound Healing)
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Review

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18 pages, 3569 KB  
Review
Dietary Supplements in Public Health: Benefits, Risks, and Emerging Gel/Hydrogel Delivery Systems
by Anca Daniela Raiciu, Georgeta Alexandru, Cristina-Mihaela Luntraru, Mihaela Neagu, Cornelia Manoliu, Cristina Manea, Justinian Andrei Tomescu, Mihaela Carmen Eremia and Amalia Stefaniu
Gels 2026, 12(3), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels12030210 - 4 Mar 2026
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Abstract
In recent years, the global use of dietary supplements has surged, largely due to their appeal as tools for improving well-being and preventing disease. While these products may offer clear advantages—such as addressing micronutrient shortages and enhancing physical or mental performance—they also carry [...] Read more.
In recent years, the global use of dietary supplements has surged, largely due to their appeal as tools for improving well-being and preventing disease. While these products may offer clear advantages—such as addressing micronutrient shortages and enhancing physical or mental performance—they also carry significant risks, including toxicity, potential drug interactions, and limited clinical validation. This paper explores the current body of scientific literature on dietary supplements, offering a nuanced analysis of their advantages and drawbacks, particularly in general and military populations. Drawing upon peer-reviewed studies, regulatory documents, and expert guidelines, the review outlines key safety considerations and presents practical recommendations for evidence-based use. In addition to conventional formulations, attention is given to the emergence of nutritional gels and hydrogel-based delivery systems, which are increasingly investigated as strategies to improve portability, gastrointestinal tolerability, and bioavailability of bioactive compounds in high-demand civilian and occupational settings. These platforms illustrate a broader shift toward advanced supplement technologies and precision nutrition approaches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gels for Skin Treatment and Wound Healing)
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