A study on developing topical gel containing 3% caffeine

This study aimed to select the appropriate ingredients to formulate a topical gel containing 3% caffeine, based on evaluating some characteristics such as physical appearance, pH, viscosity, and the ability to release the active ingredient through cellulose acetate membrane. The results showed that changing the ratio of xanthan gum (0.5%, 1% and 2 %) does not affect caffeine release, although viscosity significantly increases. On the other hand, increasing the ratio of 1,3-propanediol solvent from 10%, 20%, to 30% has decreased the amount of caffeine release through the membrane. The formula containing 10% 1,3-propanediol has a higher caffeine release through the membrane at 60 minutes, 240 minutes, and 360 minutes compared to the other formulas. Based on the evaluated criteria within the scope of this study, the best formulation of cafein gel consisting of the following components: 3% caffeine, 10% 1,3-propanediol, 1% xanthan gum, 2% ethanol, 5% tween 80, and water.