Panthenol

Humectant that hydrates and soothes irritated skin.

Also known as: Panthenol, provitamin B5, dexpanthenol, D-panthenol

What it is

Panthenol is the alcohol form of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). It's a humectant that penetrates the skin and converts to pantothenic acid, a key component of coenzyme A, which supports skin barrier function and cellular repair.

What it does

Panthenol draws water into the skin, improving hydration and plumpness. It also reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), strengthens the skin barrier, and has mild anti-inflammatory properties that calm redness and irritation. It supports skin healing and is particularly soothing after procedures or in compromised skin.

The evidence

Strong clinical evidence supports panthenol's hydrating and barrier-repair effects; multiple studies confirm reduced TEWL and improved skin moisture retention at 2–5% concentrations. Evidence for anti-inflammatory and wound-healing benefits is moderate to strong, especially in post-procedure and irritated-skin contexts.

Best for

Dehydrated, sensitive, irritated, and post-procedure skin; all skin types benefit, especially those with compromised barriers or eczema-prone skin.

Pairs well with

Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, niacinamide, centella asiatica, and other barrier-repair ingredients.

Use cautiously with

No major conflicts; panthenol is well-tolerated alongside most actives. Avoid excessive layering with other heavy humectants in very humid climates (may over-hydrate).

Cautions

Generally very safe and non-irritating; suitable for pregnancy and sensitive skin. Rare contact sensitivity reported; patch-test if prone to fragrance or preservative sensitivity.