To compare the in vitro percutaneous absorption of the berberine hydrochloride ointments with oil, emulsion and water-soluble dissolvents. Methods:The above three kinds of ointments were applied to the equal areas of the in vitro dehaired epidermis of mice. Under the same condition, the absorbed liquid degree by epidermis was collected within various durations. The absorbance of liquid was measured with spectrophotometry at 344 nm. Results:Within 12 hours, all of the three ointments were absorbed by epidermis to a certain degree, where the percutaneous absorbance of emulsion ointment was the highest, followed by water-soluble ointment, and the oil-like ointment which had the lowest absorbance. Conclusion:Dissolvent type of TCM ointment has obvious influence on the percutaneous absorption of the drug.