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Panthenol (Provitamin B5)

Alcohol analogue of pantothenic acid. Penetrates skin and converts to pantothenic acid, required for coenzyme A synthesis. Accelerates healing and reduces irritation.

INCI: Panthenol

Evidence by route

A

Topical application

RCTs confirm accelerated wound healing and superficial burn recovery, reduced erythema after laser procedures, and improved barrier function. Widely used after cosmetic procedures as a post-procedural care ingredient.

  • Ebner F et al. J Dermatolog Treat. 2002;13(4):173-178. PMID 19753737
  • Wollina U et al. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2005;18(3):132-8. PMID 15897685
How to read tiers A–F
  • AProven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential
Low
Allergen risk
Low
Pregnancy
Safe
Suitable for
Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Normal, Dry

Combinations with other ingredients

Works well with

Retinol

Panthenol softens retinol adaptation in the first weeks. Reduces redness and flaking without blocking the main effect.

About this ingredient

Panthenol (Provitamin B5, D-Panthenol) is the alcohol analogue of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). On the skin it oxidizes into pantothenic acid, a component of coenzyme A – a key player in fatty acid metabolism and tissue healing. Where applied. Moisturizing creams and lotions (2-5%), after-sun and sunburn products, damaged-skin formulations (Bepanthen, Sesderma Panthenol), hair shampoos and conditioners (0.5-2%), eye and nose preparations. In Spain Bepanthen Plus (Bayer) is a standard home-pharmacy item. Evidence base. Studies (Bissett 2017, Camargo 2011) showed moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and healing effects of 5% panthenol. Actively used after laser resurfacing, chemical peels, skin biopsy, burns, and in atopic dermatitis – accelerates epidermal recovery by 30-50%. Safety. CIR confirmed safety in 2011. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating. Systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. Allergic reactions are extremely rare. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage. Often used for nipple fissures during breastfeeding – safe for the infant on incidental ingestion. Particularly suitable for. Patients with atopic dermatitis, sensitive skin, post-procedure recovery, oral isotretinoin courses (lip and skin moisturizing), diaper dermatitis in infants. In children over 28 days – first-line product.

Frequently asked questions

Is Panthenol (Provitamin B5) safe during pregnancy?

Panthenol (Provitamin B5) is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.

What skin types is Panthenol (Provitamin B5) for?

Panthenol (Provitamin B5) suits: oily, combination, sensitive, normal, dry.

What is Panthenol (Provitamin B5) and what does it do in cosmetics?

Alcohol analogue of pantothenic acid.

What's the INCI name for Panthenol (Provitamin B5)?

The INCI name is Panthenol. It may also appear as: D-Panthenol, Pro-Vitamin B5, Dexpanthenol.

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