Preparation and characterization of pre-nanoemulsions encapsulating multiple oil-soluble active substances

Background Nanoemulsions (NEs) are promising delivery systems for lipophilic active ingredients. However, traditional preparation methods of NEs are energy-intensive, complex, and lead to poor stability and high costs.Objective This study aims to introduce a novel pre-nanoemulsions (PNEs) system to overcome the limitations of traditional NE preparation methods.Methods The PNEs, composed of an oil phase, surfactant, co-surfactant, and aqueous phase, form thermodynamically stable isotropic mixtures. The optimized PNEs were characterized in terms of particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index (PDI). Comprehensive stability tests, including centrifugation, dilution, and long-term storage, were conducted. Turbiscan analysis was also performed to further assess their stability. Additionally, the sustained release and transdermal absorption capabilities of the PNEs were evaluated.Results The optimized PNEs exhibited a particle size of 115.8 ± 2.6 nm, zeta potential of −40.4 ± 2.4 mV, and PDI of 0.15 ± 0.02, with high encapsulation efficiency for lipophilic substances. Comprehensive stability tests, including centrifugation, dilution, and long-term storage, demonstrated robust performance, which was further confirmed by Turbiscan analysis. The PNEs also showed enhanced sustained release and transdermal absorption capabilities.Conclusions This universal PNEs system provides a simple, low-cost, and efficient solution for delivering lipophilic active ingredients. It addresses the key challenges of traditional NEs and offers significant potential for practical applications across various industries.