Exploring the multifaceted potential of selenium nanoparticles in managing skin conditions: a review

This review comprehensively evaluates the dermatological potential of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) as an innovative alternative to conventional treatments. It addresses critical therapeutic challenges in skin care, primarily the escalation of multi-drug-resistant microbial resistance and the systemic side effects of existing therapies. A concise review of SeNP fabrication strategies spanning physical, chemical, and eco-friendly biogenic pathways was conducted alongside an analysis of how nanoparticle architecture (size, morphology, and surface charge) influences transdermal penetration kinetics, localised retention, and safety thresholds. Preclinical data reveal that SeNPs exhibit potent, broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Notably, myco-synthesised SeNPs exhibit a low Minimum Inhibitory Concentration against resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains, significantly reducing overall bacterial load. Particle sizes engineered within an ideal transdermal range maximise cellular uptake and promote robust antioxidant mechanisms via the Nrf2-Keap1 pathway. Furthermore, incorporating SeNPs into advanced matrices including hydrogels, patches, and biofilms enables sustained topical release (e.g., 22 % drug release at 48 h), accelerating in vivo excision wound healing to an 85 % closure rate within 18 days while suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. The core novelty of this review is that biogenic SeNPs uniquely bridge the gap between high therapeutic efficacy and safety. Unlike traditional metal nanoparticles, SeNPs provide multi-targeted anti-microbial and regenerative action with negligible resistance development, a narrow yet highly viable therapeutic index, and exceptional biocompatibility, positioning them as a premier platform for next-generation clinical dermatology.