Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are categorized as a novel generation of nanocarriers attracting huge attention as innovative colloidal carrier systems used for drug delivery as they integrate the advantages and avoid the disadvantages of other colloidal carries such as liposomes as well as polymeric nanoparticles. SLNs are biocompatible and biodegradable carrier system made from physiological lipids, which decrease the danger of cute and chronic toxicity. Moreover, SLNs have been used as a possible attractive drug-carrier for topical drug delivery. Drug delivery to the skin is widely used for local and systemic delivery and has potentials to be improved by application of nanoparticulate formulations. This review discus on many aspects of SLNs such as their advantages and disadvantages, method of preparation, excipients influence, SLNs and topical delivery and their therapeutic applications. SLNs are promising delivery carriers for lipophilic as well as hydrophilic drugs and can form a base in the field of modern pharmaceutics.