Quercetin (QUE) shows antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities which potentially accelerates the healing of second degree (type A) burns. Therefore, it is imperative to formulate QUE in a qualified topical dosage form. A micellar hydrogel offers significant features as QUE topical preparation. Variations in Tween 80 (as the solubilizer) and sodium alginate (as the gel forming agent; SA) may influence the physical properties of the formulation. This study aimed to optimize the formulation with regards to the Tween 80-SA composition.

The gels were fabricated by incorporating SA in the aqueous solution containing QUE-Tween 80 micelles to form a semisolid texture. The formula was a 2x2 factorial design with Tween-80 (factor A) and SA (factor B). The responses were viscosity, spread-ability and viscosity shift (on the cycling test). The formula optimization was carried out based on valid model equations which could be used to draw contour plots. The overlay contour plots were further used to obtain area of optimum responses.

The results indicated dominant effects of SA on all responses whereas Tween 80 was slightly affected the responses. However, the area of optimum responses could be obtained on the overlay contour plots and be validated.