Also known as Pro-vitamin B5, Dexpanthenol, D-panthenol
A soothing-feeling humectant and skin conditioner that helps support softness, comfort, and moisture.
Humectant & skin conditioner
What it is
Panthenol is an alcohol form related to pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5, and is often called pro-vitamin B5. In topical products it functions mainly as a humectant and skin-conditioning ingredient. Its effect depends on the amount used, the product vehicle, and the rest of the formula.
Common uses and benefits
Panthenol is commonly included in serums, moisturizers, masks, after-sun products, and hair or scalp care. Human studies of dexpanthenol-containing formulas have found improvements in outer-skin hydration, water-loss measurements, roughness, and barrier recovery after controlled irritation.
Who may like it
It may appeal to dry, dehydrated, sensitive-feeling, or temporarily uncomfortable skin. It is also useful when you want hydration and comfort without making a routine feel overly rich.
Common formats
Panthenol
D-panthenol
Dexpanthenol
DL-panthenol
Pairing and use notes
It generally pairs well with glycerin, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, peptides, and gentle emollients. Follow the directions for the complete product, especially when panthenol appears beside exfoliating acids or retinoids.
Good to know
Panthenol is generally well tolerated, but rare irritation or contact allergy can occur. A panthenol product is not automatically gentle if the rest of its formula contains ingredients your skin does not tolerate. Patch-test reactive skin and stop if irritation persists.
Sources and references
Proksch and Nissen (2002), controlled study of dexpanthenol after surfactant-induced irritation — View source
Gehring and Gloor (2000), randomized double-blind study of topical dexpanthenol — View source
