How does Cortisone easily travel through the epidermis?

Cortisone is a steroid hormone produced naturally by the adrenal glands that has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. It is not able to easily travel through the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, on its own. However, when formulated into a topical cream, ointment, or gel, cortisone can be absorbed through the skin. The formulation helps the cortisone to penetrate the skin's lipid barrier and reach the affected area.