Tetrahydropiperine (also marketed as Cosmoperine) is a hydrogenated derivative of piperine from black pepper used in topical formulations to enhance the skin penetration and bioavailability of co-formulated active ingredients. It functions primarily as a delivery enhancer rather than a standalone therapeutic active.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin irritation or transient tingling/warmth | Uncommon | May cause mild localized sensation or irritation, particularly on sensitive skin, due to its pepper-derived origin. |
| Contact dermatitis or allergic sensitization | Rare | Reported infrequently; patch testing is advisable for sensitive individuals. |
| Increased irritation from co-applied actives | Uncommon | By boosting penetration of other ingredients, it can indirectly increase their irritant potential. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.