Skin represents the largest organ in the human body, functioning as a protective barrier against environmental factors while playing a critical role in thermoregulation. Acne vulgaris is recognized as the most common dermatological condition affecting adolescents, and if left untreated, it can result in lasting skin damage and associated psychosocial challenges. This study aims to develop innovative polymeric biomaterials that could effectively support the treatment of acne vulgaris. The synthesis of these biomaterials involves the use of polyethylene glycol 6000, sodium alginate, and the antioxidant protein glutathione (GHS) to create polymeric hydrogels. These hydrogels were generated via a UV-mediated crosslinking process. To enhance the functional properties of the hydrogels, zinc oxide microparticles (ZnO), synthesized through a wet precipitation method, were incorporated into the formulations. Characterization of the ZnO was performed using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), particle sizer analysis, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Additionally, the bioactivity of the synthesized materials was evaluated through incubation in media simulating physiological body fluids. The cytotoxic effects of the biomaterials were assessed using an indirect test on mouse fibroblast (L929) cells, in accordance with ISO 10993-5 guidelines. The results of our research indicate that the developed biomaterials exhibit potential as a carrier for active substances, contributing positively to the treatment of acne vulgaris and potentially improving overall skin health.

Surface functionalization of metallic implants is widely explored to enhance their performance and functionality. In this study, multifunctional hydrogel coatings based on poly(vinylpyrrolidone) and polyethylene glycol were developed and functionalized with a taxifolin (TAX) inclusion complex and collagen to introduce bioactive features. TAX, a naturally occurring flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, was incorporated using β-cyclodextrin to improve its stability and enable controlled release. The coatings were applied to titanium-hydroxyapatite composites and titanium sheet substrates to evaluate their applicability across surfaces with varying morphologies, ranging from porous to relatively smooth. The ceramic phase was modified with magnesium ions to enhance its bioactivity and better mimic the composition of natural bone tissue. FTIR and SEM analyses confirmed hydrogel formation and effective surface coverage. Degradation and incubation studies in simulated physiological environments demonstrated the material’s stability, while UV–Vis analysis indicated TAX release, highlighting the system’s potential as a carrier for flavonoid-based compounds. Indirect cytotoxicity studies using MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts indicated low cytotoxicity and a favorable biological response of collagen- and taxifolin-modified systems. The developed coatings represent a versatile platform for surface modification of titanium-based biomaterials and demonstrate potential for application across substrates with diverse surface characteristics. Further studies are required to assess their biological potential.