Panthenol

Vitamin B5 Derivative

Also known as: Pro-Vitamin B5, Dexpanthenol, D-Panthenol, Provitamin B5

Description

Panthenol (D-panthenol or dexpanthenol) is the alcohol analogue of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). Upon topical application, it is converted to pantothenic acid, which is a component of coenzyme A. It is widely used in skincare and wound care for its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and barrier-repair properties. [Ebner 2002]

Mechanism of Action

After penetrating the epidermis, panthenol is enzymatically oxidized to pantothenic acid, which is incorporated into coenzyme A (CoA). CoA is essential for lipid synthesis and energy metabolism in keratinocytes, supporting barrier repair and cell proliferation. Panthenol also acts as a humectant, attracting and binding water in the stratum corneum. It stimulates fibroblast proliferation and accelerates re-epithelialization in wound healing. Anti-inflammatory effects are mediated through modulation of IL-6 and IL-8 expression. [Proksch 2002]

Indications

  • Dry and dehydrated skin [Ebner]
  • Wound healing [Proksch]
  • Skin barrier repair [Ebner]
  • Diaper rash [Ebner]
  • Minor burns and irritation
  • Post-procedural care
  • Eczema (adjunct)

Available Concentrations

1%2%5%75%

Side Effects

  • Very rarely causes irritation [Ebner]
  • Contact allergy (extremely rare)

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to panthenol

Pregnancy Category

Not classified (generally considered safe)

Found In

Cosmetics containing Panthenol

Cetaphil Gentle Skin CleanserCetaphil (Galderma)The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen Hydrating Gel SPF 50 PA++++The Derma CoThe Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Serum with Alpha ArbutinThe Derma CoDot & Key Blueberry Hydrate 12% Barrier Boost SerumDot & KeyDot & Key 10% Glycolic Acid Glow SerumDot & KeyDot & Key Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Vitamin C + EDot & KeyDot & Key Strawberry Dew Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++Dot & KeyEpisoft AC Moisturiser with SPF 30Glenmark (Episoft)Fixderma Shadow Sunscreen SPF 50+ Gel PA+++FixdermaHyphen Brightening Face Serum 5% Niacinamide + 1% Alpha ArbutinHyphenMamaearth Tea Tree Face WashMamaearthmCaffeine Latte Coffee Face WashmCaffeineMinimalist 16% Vitamin C Face SerumMinimalistMinimalist Cream Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++MinimalistMinimalist 2% Hyaluronic Acid + PGA SerumMinimalistNeutrogena Ultrasheer Age Shield Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++Neutrogena (Johnson & Johnson)Neutrogena Hydro Serum with Hyaluronic Acid & Pro-Vitamin B5NeutrogenaOlay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting CreamOlay (Procter & Gamble)Olay Total Effects Serum with Vitamin C B5 NiacinamideOlayPilgrim 25% AHA + 2% BHA + 5% PHA Peeling SolutionPilgrimPilgrim 2% Alpha Arbutin & 3% Vitamin C Brightening Face SerumPilgrimPilgrim 10% Niacinamide Face SerumPilgrimPlum SPF 50 PA++++ Sunscreen with 2% NiacinamidePlumThe Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5The Ordinary (DECIEM)

Related Conditions

Rosacea Barrier support and irritation relief Atopic Dermatitis Provitamin B5 — promotes barrier repair and wound healing Psoriasis Soothing and promotes skin repair Seborrheic Dermatitis Calming and barrier repair Contact Dermatitis Promotes wound healing and barrier recovery Xerosis Provitamin B5 — hydration and barrier strengthening Keratosis Pilaris Soothing and moisturising agent

References

  1. Ebner F, Heller A, Rippke F, et al. "Topical use of dexpanthenol in skin disorders." Am J Clin Dermatol, 2002. doi:10.2165/00128071-200203060-00005
  2. Proksch E, Nissen HP. "Dexpanthenol enhances skin barrier repair and reduces inflammation after sodium lauryl sulphate-induced irritation." J Dermatolog Treat, 2002. doi:10.1080/09546630260199370

Limitations

This page provides a general overview of Panthenol in dermatology. It does not cover every possible use, formulation, or interaction. Individual responses to compounds vary — what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult a qualified dermatologist before starting or changing any treatment.