Humectant

Panthenol

Provitamin B5 is one of the most common cosmetic ingredients with clinically proven efficacy. Panthenol deeply moisturizes, accelerates healing, strengthens the barrier, and soothes inflammation. A basic component in formulas from baby creams to premium serums.

MoisturizationHealingBarrierVitamin B5

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Panthenol is the alcohol form of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). In the skin, it is enzymatically converted to pantothenic acid, which is a coenzyme in lipid synthesis and cell metabolism. It is well soluble in water and alcohol, stable in formulas with pH 4–7. In INCI, it is listed as Panthenol or DL-Panthenol. D-panthenol is the biologically active form; DL is a racemic mixture, less expensive and widely used in cosmetics.

One of the most versatile cosmetic ingredients. Suitable for skin and hair. It is fundamental in post-sun formulas, for sensitive and atopic skin, and after procedures. Effective in concentrations of 0.5–5%.

Key Benefits

✦

Deep hydration and moisture retention

The hygroscopic molecule panthenol attracts water from the environment and retains it in the stratum corneum. At the same time, it stimulates lipid barrier synthesis, reducing TEWL. The moisturizing effect exceeds that of simple glycerin due to a combination of mechanisms.

◈

Acceleration of healing and restoration

Pantothenic acid is a substrate for CoA — a cofactor in the synthesis of lipids and proteins of cell membranes. It accelerates the proliferation of fibroblasts and keratinocytes, speeding up epithelialization. Clinically proven effect in burns, dermatitis, and after cosmetic procedures.

✧

Soothing inflammation and strengthening the barrier

Reduces levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, TNF-α). At concentrations of 1–5%, it significantly reduces redness, itching, and flaking in atopic dermatitis. Cicaplast, CeraVe, La Roche-Posay use panthenol as a key restorative component.

Suitable for

Sensitive skinAtopic skinDamaged skinAll skin types

Main Actions

✓ Moisturization✓ Healing and restoration✓ Soothing inflammation

Panthenol in hair products

Panthenol is also widely used in shampoos and conditioners. It penetrates the hair cortex, filling micro-damages and increasing elasticity. It reduces brittleness and improves shine. Effective at concentrations starting from 0.5%.

CategoryHumectants

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