CAS number 81-13-0 / 16485-10-2
INCI name Panthenol
Panthenol, a provitamin of B5, is a colorless, odorless, and highly viscous liquid at room temperature. Vitamin B5 acts as a moisturizer and humectant in cosmetics, found in lotions, ointments, eye drops, and nasal sprays. Only D-panthenol (dexpanthenol) is biologically active, while the cosmetic form includes either D-panthenol or a racemic DL-panthenol mixture.
Purpose
Panthenol functions as a hair conditioner, improving softness and shine while reducing frizz. As a humectant, it attracts and retains moisture, keeping skin and hair hydrated. It provides skin conditioning by enhancing elasticity and smoothness. Additionally, its soothing properties help calm irritation, redness, and minor skin discomfort.
Origin
Panthenol is derived from Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), an essential nutrient present in all living organisms. It plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism and skin regeneration, making it a valuable ingredient in skincare and haircare formulations.
| Feature | Description |
| Name | Vitamin B5 powder |
| Type | Water soluble vitamin |
| Source | Naturally found in eggs, fish, dairy, whole grains, and synthesized for supplements |
| PH | 8–10.5 |
| Color | White to off-white |
| Odor | Odorless or slight characteristic smell |
| Physical state | Fine, free-flowing powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, alcohol, chloroform, propylene glycol |
| Concentration | 0.5% to 5% |
| Boiling point | 118-120°C |
Provitamin Nature
Panthenol is a precursor to Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), which the body converts upon absorption. This transformation enhances cell regeneration, making it an essential ingredient in skin and hair repair.
Deep Hydration & Moisture Retention
As a powerful humectant, panthenol attracts and retains water molecules, providing long-lasting hydration. It penetrates deep into the skin and hair shaft, preventing moisture loss and maintaining softness.
Lightweight & Non-Greasy Texture
Unlike some heavy emollients, panthenol absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy or sticky residue, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Enhanced Skin Barrier Function
It strengthens the skin’s lipid barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This helps improve skin resilience, keeping it supple and protected from environmental damage.
Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Known for its calming effects, panthenol helps reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation caused by environmental factors, sun exposure, or skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
Hair Strengthening & Shine Enhancement
It coats the hair shaft, improving elasticity, reducing brittleness, and adding a natural shine. By penetrating the cuticle, it helps repair damage and smooth frizz.
Wound Healing & Tissue Repair
Panthenol promotes fibroblast proliferation, accelerating wound healing and skin regeneration. It is commonly used in after-sun treatments, burn creams, and healing ointments.
Improved Hair Manageability & Reduced Breakage
By binding to the hair structure, panthenol increases flexibility, making hair less prone to breakage, split ends, and heat damage.
Enhanced Compatibility with Other Ingredients
It blends well with various skincare and haircare ingredients, including emollients, surfactants, and active compounds, without altering their efficacy or stability.
Mild & Safe for Sensitive Skin
Panthenol is non-irritating and well-tolerated, making it suitable for sensitive skin, baby products, and post-procedure skincare.
Applications of Panthenol in Skincare and Haircare
Skincare Applications
- Moisturizers & Serums – Enhances hydration, smooths skin, and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Soothing Creams & Lotions – Reduces redness, irritation, and inflammation, ideal for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
- Anti-Aging Products – Improves skin elasticity, promotes cell regeneration, and reduces fine lines.
- Wound Healing & After-Sun Care – Used in burn creams, post-laser treatments, and after-sun gels to accelerate healing.
- Acne Treatments – Helps repair the skin barrier and reduces irritation caused by acne treatments like retinoids.
- Lip Balms & Lip Care – Provides deep hydration, preventing dryness and chapping.
- Baby Skincare – Found in diaper creams and baby lotions due to its gentle and soothing nature.
Haircare Applications
- Shampoos & Conditioners – Strengthens hair, enhances shine, and improves manageability.
- Hair Masks & Treatments – Repairs damaged hair, reduces split ends, and increases elasticity.
- Leave-in Conditioners & Styling Products – Provides hydration, reduces frizz, and protects against heat damage.
- Scalp Treatments – Soothes irritation, hydrates the scalp, and supports a healthy hair growth environment.
- Hair Serums & Oils – Adds softness and shine while protecting hair from environmental stressors.