Ingredients that Help Deliver Substances into the Skin

Several ingredients are commonly used in cosmetic formulations to enhance the penetration of active substances into the skin. These are often referred to as penetration enhancers or carriers. Some examples include:

• Laurocapram: Available in both oil-soluble and water-soluble forms, it is effective at carrying ingredients into the skin.
• Tetrahydropiperine: A natural extract from black pepper known for its ability to help transport various ingredients.
• Phospholipids: These can help carry both water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients and can also provide moisture.
• 1,2-Hexanediol: Can increase the efficiency of other carriers and also acts as a preservative and humectant.
• Ethoxydiglycol: Helps dissolve certain ingredients and can enhance delivery.
• Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI): A well-established carrier with a long history of safe and effective use.
• Reservoir-Tech: This is not a direct carrier but forms a film on the skin to help retain and gradually release active ingredients, which can help reduce irritation from some potent substances.

Does Jojoba Oil Help Deliver Substances into the Skin?

Jojoba Oil is primarily known for its moisturizing properties and its similarity in structure to natural skin sebum. It is an excellent emollient and antioxidant. While it is well-absorbed by the skin and can help with the overall feel and condition of a product, its primary function is not as a penetration enhancer for other active ingredients in the same way that ingredients like Laurocapram or DMI are. Its role is more about skin conditioning and providing a suitable base for formulations.

Impact of Not Including Penetration Enhancers

The effectiveness of a cream depends on various factors, including the active ingredients used, their concentration, the overall formulation, and the target skin layer. While a cream without specific penetration enhancers can still be effective, especially if the active ingredients have some inherent ability to penetrate the skin or if their action is primarily on the skin surface, the inclusion of appropriate penetration enhancers can significantly improve the delivery of active ingredients to their intended site of action within or through the skin.

Therefore, a cream formulated with effective penetration enhancers is generally expected to show faster or more pronounced results compared to a similar cream without them, assuming the active ingredients benefit from enhanced delivery. However, the necessity and type of penetration enhancer depend heavily on the specific active ingredient and the desired outcome of the formulation.