Humectant and Vitamin Derivative
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)
Calms irritation and repairs barrier
Key Benefits
- Improves surface hydration
- Supports the moisture barrier
- Helps reduce dry, rough feel
- Promotes skin comfort
How It Works
Ingredient Details
INCI Name: Panthenol
Ingredient Type: Provitamin humectant
Best For
Dry skin · Dehydrated skin · Sensitive-feeling skin · Compromised-looking barrier · All skin types needing lightweight hydration
Research
View Ingredient Research →What It Is
What It Does
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) FAQs
Common questions about this ingredient in skincare.
Is panthenol the same as vitamin B5?
Panthenol is the provitamin form of vitamin B5. In skin, dexpanthenol can be converted to pantothenic acid, the vitamin's biologically active form.
How does panthenol help the skin barrier?
It increases moisture in the outer skin layers and can reduce transepidermal water loss. This supports a smoother surface and a more comfortable barrier.
Is panthenol suitable for sensitive skin?
Panthenol is widely used in gentle and barrier-supporting formulas and is generally well tolerated. Anyone with highly reactive skin should still patch test the complete product.
Can panthenol be used every day?
Yes, panthenol is generally suitable for daily use in leave-on or rinse-off products. Follow the directions for the finished formula rather than treating it as a separate active treatment.
Can panthenol be combined with retinoids or exfoliating acids?
Panthenol is commonly paired with potentially drying actives because it supports hydration and comfort. It does not eliminate irritation risk, so introduce strong actives gradually and monitor the skin.
Does a higher panthenol percentage always work better?
Not necessarily. Performance depends on concentration, the delivery vehicle, supporting ingredients, and the needs of the skin; a well-balanced formula can matter more than a single headline percentage.
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Products Featuring Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)
