Abstract
When comparing semisolid formulations, gels are often considered more advantageous in both cosmetics and pharmaceutical preparations. Combining gel and emulsion creates a formulation known as emulgel, which shows promise as a drug delivery system specifically for hydrophobic drugs. Emulgel offers a dual release control system by combining the properties of gel and emulsion. It provides several benefits such as being non-greasy, easy to spread and remove, moisturizing, and transparent. Emulgel is typically prepared using the incorporation method. It is commonly used for delivering analgesics, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-acne drugs, and various cosmetic formulations. Studies on emulgel demonstrate its potential for delivering a wider range of topical drugs due to its advantages over other drug delivery systems. Gels are a relatively recent type of dosage form that involve trapping significant quantities of aqueous or hydroalcoholic liquid within a network of colloidal solid particles. Gel formulations generally offer faster drug release compared to conventional ointments and creams. Despite the many advantages of gels, a major limitation lies in effectively delivering hydrophobic drugs. To overcome this limitation, emulgels are prepared. Emulgels refer to combined forms of gels and emulsions. Emulsions possess a certain level of elegance and can be easily washed off when desired. They also have a high capacity to penetrate the skin. Emulgels formulated for dermatological use offer several desirable properties, such as thixotropic behavior, non-greasy texture, easy spreadability, easy removal, emollient effects, non-staining properties, water solubility, longer shelf life, biocompatibility, transparent appearance, and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Another important factor is the ability to prolong drug release, even for hydrophilic drugs, by developing water-in-oil (w/o) emulgels.