Panthenol
The provitamin form of B5. Penetrates well, converts to pantothenic acid, and supports barrier function and wound healing.
In keratinocytes, panthenol is enzymatically oxidised to pantothenic acid, a precursor to coenzyme A, fueling fatty-acid and lipid synthesis in the barrier.
- Soothes
- Repairs barrier
- Hydrates
- Anti-inflammatory
- Supports wound healing
What the evidence supports.
- All skin types
No notable contraindications reported.
Mid-routine serum or treatment step.
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 1%–5%
Year-round.
Dietary B5: avocado, egg yolk, mushrooms, whole grains.
- Slow wound healing
- Sensitive irritation-prone skin
Buffer for retinoid sandwiching; 5% in PM moisturiser dramatically reduces retinoid irritation.
The research behind Panthenol.
Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
Cutis, 2006
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
Sign up to see how Panthenol fits your skin archetype and personalised protocol.
3 studies from the Intelligence Vault that discuss Panthenol.
- expert opinion · J Drugs DermatolDecoding Sensitive Skin Syndrome: International Expert Advisory Insights on Management From India and the United States of America.
- rct · J Cosmet DermatolEfficacy of a Topical Formulation on Skin Hydration and Barrier Function in Individuals With Xerosis: A 28-Day Randomized, Split-Leg, Untreated-Controlled Trial.
- expert opinion · Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and VenereologySensitive skin syndrome: an updated definition and review of pathophysiology