Effect of iontophoresis and propylene glycol on the in vitro diffusion of ethyl vitamin c cream

Abstract

Chemical instability properties of L-ascorbid acid/vitamin C can be decreased by derivatization 3-O-ethyl-Lascorbic acid/ethyl vitamin C. Ethyl vitamin C, as lightening skin, in cream formulation could not be absorbed by the skin optimally because of the low permeability of the skin. Propylene glycol as a penetration-enhancing substances and iontophoresis method can increase the number of permeated chemical compound. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of propylene glycol as penetrance enhancers and application of iontophoresis method on diffusion of ethyl vitamin C cream preparation in vitro. The study was performed with flow through method for 6 hours using porcine ears skin as a diffusion membran. The results obtained that the F3 (PG 6% and iontophoresis), had the greatest % permeation (19,61±3,85%). The combination of propylene glycol and iontophoresis indicated synergistic effect in permeation rate. Iontophoresis application, F2 (without PG 6%), was stronger permeation rate than propylene glycol as penetrance enhancers, F1(PG 6%).