Aleksandra Stolić Jovanović

My research work reflects a journey of growth, resilience and purpose that keeps me focused and driven. My work is guided by the belief that curiosity, deep commitment and knowledge have the power to change the world.

Aleksandra Stolić Jovanović is a pharmacist at the Filly Farm Pharmacy in Prokuplje, Serbia and a PhD student at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Pharmaceutical Sciences course.

As a pharmacist, Aleksandra Stolić Jovanović, MPharm, Specialist in Cosmetology, brings extensive academic and professional experience to her role at the Filly Farm Pharmacy in Prokuplje. She excelled in her pharmacy studies at the Faculty of Medicine and received multiple scholarships, including the prestigious “Dositeja” grant for exceptionally talented students. Her doctoral studies in Pharmaceutical Sciences were complemented by research in biomaterials and their biological interactions. Stolić Jovanović, MPharm, also earned a Specialist in Cosmetology degree from the University of Belgrade. Her research involvement includes participation in a national project on biomaterials and their biological interactions, funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development of Serbia. Her research focuses on the performance of encapsulated L-ascorbic acid derivative (ascorbyl palmitate) on the skin, contributing to advancements in pharmaceutical and cosmetic sciences.

Enhancing skin penetration: research focusing on improving dermatological applications

The recent research of Stolić Jovanović, MPharm, focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of L-ascorbic acid, a vital compound widely used in dermatology for its benefits in promoting collagen synthesis, protecting against sun damage and treating conditions like hyperpigmentation, acne scars and inflammatory dermatoses. However, the challenge of stability and effective topical delivery of L-ascorbic acid has spurred the development of improved derivatives and more efficient delivery systems. In this study, the authors evaluated the performance of ascorbyl palmitate, a derivative of L-ascorbic acid, comparing its dermal penetration from both liposomal and non-liposomal cream and emulgel formulations.

The study revealed that liposomal encapsulation of ascorbyl palmitate significantly improved its penetration into the skin, with liposomal formulations showing superior results over their non-liposomal counterparts. Both the cream and emulgel formulations containing encapsulated ascorbyl palmitate demonstrated a 1.3-fold and 1.2-fold increase in penetration into the stratum corneum, respectively. These findings highlight the potential for liposomal systems to enhance the delivery and therapeutic benefits of ascorbyl palmitate in clinical skincare applications.

The study also assessed the sensory and textural properties of the formulations, with volunteers providing feedback on spreadability, absorption and overall experience. The liposomal formulations were found to have superior sensory qualities, offering optimal spreadability and absorption, in addition to their enhanced dermal penetration. These findings reinforce the clinical potential of liposomal encapsulation in improving the effectiveness of topical treatments. By addressing the challenges of stable and efficient delivery, the research of Aleksandra Stolić Jovanović, MPharm, contributes to the advancement of innovative delivery systems, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in dermatology.

A passion for pharmacy: Advancing science, innovation and patient care

I derive immense fulfillment from knowing that my research can lead to meaningful innovations and inspire further investigations. For me, tackling complex problems and pushing the boundaries of current understanding is a challenge I embrace. I find great satisfaction in identifying practical and effective solutions, transforming limitations into possibilities, and adopting new perspectives throughout the process.

For Aleksandra Stolić Jovanović, MPharm, being a pharmacist means more than just ensuring the safe administration of medications – it is about making a lasting impact on patients’ lives. Inspired by the dedication of pharmacists she admired growing up, she sees them as mentors, innovators and essential pillars of the healthcare system. Her passion for pharmacy stems from its dynamic and evolving nature, offering opportunities to contribute to drug development, clinical trials and improved patient outcomes. 

Balancing scientific expertise with compassionate care, she finds fulfillment in problem-solving, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and transforming challenges into opportunities. Aleksandra enjoys working with dedicated people. The support and collaboration of her mentor and colleagues brings the joy of growing together in the field of pharmacy. Engaging in discussions and constructive conversations not only provides her with satisfaction but also helps refine and elevate her research work. 

Beyond her professional commitments, she draws energy from her children, the support of her colleagues and the joy of lifelong learning, knowing that every step forward in her research brings meaningful contributions to the field of pharmacy.