Glossary · Formulation
What Is Penetration Enhancer?
A penetration enhancer is an ingredient that increases the rate at which another ingredient crosses the skin's outer barrier, typically by temporarily disrupting the lipid structure of the stratum corneum. Common examples include certain glycols, fatty acids and terpenes, used at low percentages alongside the active.
Why it matters when you source
Enhancers raise both efficacy and irritation risk, and they interact with every other ingredient, so they belong in the formulation discussion rather than the marketing one. If a brief asks for stronger delivery, ask what evidence supports the effect rather than assuming a higher concentration is the answer.
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