A Comprehensive Review on Laser-Assisted Drug Delivery

Abstract

The barrier function of the skin restricts the amount of topical applications that can be absorbed through the epidermis. To improve penetration, a variety of methods and materials, including radiofrequency, lasers, dermabrasion, and microneedling, have been employed as part of a strategy called transdermal drug delivery system. Laser-assisted drug delivery (LADD) is one of these methods. Because ablative fractional lasers, such as CO2 or erbium: YAG lasers, can create minuscule ablated channels, LADD frequently uses these lasers. The patient, the medicine, and the location and state of the skin all require adjustments to the LADD parameters. LADD has been utilized in conjunction with a range of topical medications, including corticosteroids, photosensitizers, and immunotherapy drugs (imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil) to treat a variety of ailments, including photodamage, scarring, and nonmelanoma skin cancer.