Topical foams containing natural saponins: a world of opportunities in pharmaceutical and cosmetic sciences

The cosmetic and pharmaceutical markets are witnessing a rising number of topical foam products, particularly for cosmetic applications, alongside a significant increase in foam-related patents in recent years. What makes topical foams attractive is their superior application experience and aesthetics properties. While foam formation in products like shampoos or bath foams is largely a cosmetic feature, medicated topical foams represent an innovative drug delivery system for managing skin diseases or disorders. This review highlights the advantages of using topical foams over other topical dosage forms, as well as the ingredients used in their formulation. It also explores the growing trend of using more eco-friendly surfactants, particularly the use of saponins as surfactant. A major advantage of natural surfactants is that they are derived from naturally occurring materials, making them both economical and sustainable. Additionally, their biodegradability distinguishes them from synthetic surfactants, which are often non-biodegradable. The role of surfactants in improving drug permeation through the skin has been extensively studied, demonstrating their effectiveness as chemical penetration enhancers in dermal and transdermal drug delivery. This work examines the surface-active characteristics that determine their potential as pharmaceutical and personal care surfactants. The future perspectives for topical foams containing natural surfactants in the development of more sustainable and effective skincare products are also presented.