Enhancement of the penetration of dithranol and increase of effect of dithranol on the skin by liposomes.

An assessment was made in healthy skin of dithranol erythema caused by a 10-min occlusive application of 0.5% dithranol (CAS 1143-38-0) in liposomal gel (Natipide II) with and without the addition of 3% salicylic acid, and of 0.5% dithranol in vaseline and in a removable standard ointment base, both with 3% salicylic acid. Both liposomal preparations led to a significant potentiation of the dithranol erythema. The results indicate a strong promotion of the penetration of dithranol by the liposomal gel.