We compared the structures and rheology of xanthan–galactomannan (X:G) hy-
drogels with the addition of curcumin in microemulsion (X:GMC) and ethanol (X:GEC). X:GMC
hydrogels have gel characteristics and exhibited a significantly higher elastic response than the
X:GEC and X:G hydrogels at room temperature, but after heating, an increase in the elastic
modulus was observed for the last two systems. The visualization of the hydrogel microstruc-
tures by cryo-scanning electronic microscopy revealed pores within the lamellar structure only
for X:GMC. In vitro skin permeation tests showed a more pronounced lag time for X:GMC;
however, a more efficient permeation from X:GMC than from X:GEC. This study demonstrates
that the X:G system is an alternative to traditional gels for the topical applications of hy-
drophobic drugs.