Design and development of an ethosomal system of tea tree oil with azelaic acid and niacinamide for the treatment of mild to moderate acne.
Supervisor Name
Hiba Natsheh
Supervisor Email
hiba.natsheh@najah.edu
University
An-Najah National University
Research field
Pharmaceutical Sciences
Bio
Dr. Hiba Natsheh is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Pharmacy, An-Najah National University. She also serves as the Head of the Pharmaceutical Research Unit and a member of the Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Group at The Medical and Health Sciences Research Center, Scientific Centers, An-Najah National University. In her research, Dr. Natsheh focuses on multidisciplinary research aiming to develop novel delivery systems for medical and cosmetic applications. She co-authored several publications including original research and review articles and a book chapter. In addition, she is a co-inventor of seven patents and patent applications and a recipient of the prestigious Kaye innovation award, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 2022 for her contribution to the invention of a new nanotechnology to enhance drug delivery to the brain.
Description
## Abstract / Project Description Acne vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder that affects adolescents and young adults and is often associated with psychological distress, scarring, and post-inflammatory pigmentation. Although conventional topical and systemic therapies—such as antibiotics and retinoids—are widely used, their long-term effectiveness is limited by adverse effects and the increasing emergence of antibiotic resistance. Consequently, there is growing interest in developing safer, effective, and natural-based topical alternatives with enhanced skin penetration and stability. Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is a well-established natural agent with documented antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity against acne-causing microorganisms. However, its clinical application is limited by instability, oxidation, skin irritation, and poor penetration through the stratum corneum. The present study aims to design and develop an advanced ethosomal delivery system incorporating 5% tea tree oil combined with azelaic acid and niacinamide in a gel base for the treatment of mild to moderate acne. Ethosomes are lipid-based vesicular carriers containing high ethanol content, which enhances drug solubility, skin permeability, and targeted delivery to deeper skin layers, including sebaceous glands. In this in vitro experimental study, an ethosomal gel formulation will be compared with a conventional emulsion containing the same active ingredients. The formulations will be evaluated for particle size, surface charge, viscosity, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, drug release behavior, stability, and antimicrobial activity using standardized laboratory techniques. This study is expected to demonstrate improved stability, controlled release, enhanced skin penetration, and superior antibacterial efficacy of the ethosomal system while reducing potential side effects. The findings may contribute to the development of an effective, biocompatible, and resistance-reducing topical therapy for mild to moderate acne
