What is Panthenol?
A skincare hero since the 1940s, panthenol (provitamin B5) was first discovered for its wound-healing properties. This versatile ingredient boasts both humectant (attracts moisture) and emollient (smooths and retains moisture) benefits.1 When applied topically, your body quickly converts panthenol to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). This conversion translates to smoother, more moisturised skin in skin care products, and similar benefits for hair, making it a popular addition to conditioners for a silky-soft feel.
Panthenol can be listed as provitamin B5, butanamide or d-pantothenyl alcohol, and is readily absorbed by the body. Deficiencies are uncommon thanks to its presence in many foods. Beef, poultry, seafood, milk, eggs, and even vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, and potatoes are all good sources of B5.
What can Panthenol do for your skin?
Hydration – while it acts as a humectant like hyaluronic acid, attracting moisture to your skin, panthenol also boasts emollient properties, forming a protective barrier to lock it all in. This double threat reduces moisture loss and strengthens your skin’s barrier function. Plus, panthenol plays well with most ingredients, making it a versatile hero in countless skincare products.
Wound healing – panthenol helps your skin heal faster by accelerating repair and regeneration.2 It does this by diving deeper into the skin layers, encouraging new skin cell growth (differentiation) and boosting healthy fat production (lipid synthesis). This can even lead to improved skin elasticity, making your skin feel plumper and bouncier.
Fortify skin barrier – panthenol is an effective emollient, it can lock in moisture and protect against transepidermal water loss (TEWL).3 They do this by stimulating cells that boost skin barrier function, allowing you to stay hydrated.
Anti-inflammatory – panthenol is known to calm redness and irritation. Studies suggest it may be effective in reducing symptoms of atopic dermatitis, nappy rash, and even aiding post-surgical healing.2