Panthenol (Provitamin B5)
Panthenol is a form of vitamin B5 (also known as pantothenic acid) that’s commonly used in skincare, haircare, and cosmetic products. When applied to the skin, panthenol converts into vitamin B5, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin and supporting the skin barrier.
It’s called a provitamin because it transforms into the active vitamin form once it’s absorbed. In skincare, it acts as a humectant, which means it attracts and holds moisture, helping to keep skin soft, smooth, and hydrated.
💡What it does in skincare
- Deeply hydrates: Helps draw moisture into the skin and lock it in, preventing dryness and flakiness.
- Soothes irritation: Known for its calming, anti-inflammatory effects — great for sensitive, dry, or irritated skin.
- Strengthens the skin barrier: Supports the regeneration of skin cells and helps repair the outer layer of skin.
- Improves texture and softness: Makes skin feel smoother, more elastic, and well-conditioned.
- Aids healing: Speeds up wound healing and can help with minor cuts, burns, or post-treatment recovery.
💡What it does in haircare
- Adds moisture to dry or damaged hair
- Improves shine and softness
- Strengthens strands and reduces breakage
- Reduces scalp irritation
🧬Safety & Toxicology
- Very safe and non-irritating for nearly all skin types, including babies and those with conditions like eczema or dermatitis.
- Non-comedogenic – it won’t clog pores.
- Panthenol is well-studied and widely used in both cosmetics and pharmaceutical products.
- Side effects are extremely rare, typically limited to mild contact allergies in very sensitive individuals.