4-Aryloxy boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY) modification of the surface of silica nanoparticles (NPs) improved permeability through the membrane of HaCaT skin cells and swine skin tissue. The 35 nm BODIPY-modified NPs penetrated tape-stripped skin and reached the dermis within 1 h. Since these NPs can encapsulate a variety of molecules including macromolecules, they are expected to serve as effective carriers for the delivery of drugs, genes, and other compounds through skin and into cells.