Commonly known as: Provitamin B5, D-panthenol, Dexpanthenol, Pantothenol, D-Pantothenyl Alcohol.
I.N.C.I. list name: Panthenol.
Extraction process: Combination of propanolamine and beta-dimethylbutyrolactone.
Source: Synthetic.
Botanical name: /
Family: /
Extracted part of the plant: /
Origin, provenance: Germany.
Chemical properties: An alcoholic analogue of pantothenic acid; Precursor to Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid); Molecular mass: 205.3 g/mol; Soluble in water, ethanol, methanol and propylene glycol; Insoluble in fats; Density: 1.16 g/cm3.
Properties: Emulsion, colloidal solution, true aqueous solution, balm, liquid suspension, solid soap, foam.
Required dosage in cosmetic products: From 0.1 to 5%.
Function: Antistatic, hair conditioner, skin maintenance agent.
Specificities: Healing, softening, detangling, regenerating, soothing, anti-inflammatory, moisturising, densifying, hygroscopic.
Benefits: All skin types, particularly dry, dehydrated, sensitive, and irritation-prone skin; All hair types, especially dry, dull, and damaged hair, and sensitive scalps; Recommended for combating hair loss, chapped lips, and brittle nails.
Facial Care (lip balms, face creams, facial cleansers, masks, serums, micellar waters, after-shave lotions);
Body Care (body creams/lotions, after-sun care, hand and foot creams, post-hair removal care, nail care, after-sun lotions);
Haircare (shampoos, conditioners, hair lotions, styling mousses, styling gels, hair masks, repair serums);
Makeups (mascaras, eye-liners, lipsticks, eyeshadows, foundations);
Hygiene (anti-perspirants, shower gels, solid soaps, oral care products).
Store at room temperature (between +15°C and +25°C), away from moisture and light.
Generally, panthenol is regarded as a gentle and safe ingredient (non-irritating to the eyes or skin) when applied topically, and is very well tolerated by all skin types, even by sensitive skin. It is often used in baby care products. However, studies report rare cases of irritation and contact allergy at high doses, higher than those used in cosmetic products.