Liposome preparations: a step forward in topical drug therapy for skin disease? A review.

The production of liposomes, which was described in 1961, soon was claimed to be a useful technology for drug encapsulation. The first preparation (containing a topical antifungal agent), however, was registered only recently. Additional preparations, including some for topical therapy of skin disease, are under clinical investigation. Moreover, a variety of cosmetic products that contain liposomes is available today. In this article we review the literature on liposomes as it pertains to dermatology, including the basic principles of liposome structures and preparations, pharmacokinetics of liposomes and liposome-encapsulated drugs, and the influence on drug activity. Moreover, future applications of liposome preparations are discussed.