Pantothenic Acid
Water-soluble vitamin B5, biochemical precursor of coenzyme A. Cosmetics more often use the proalcohol form D-Panthenol (dexpanthenol), which converts to pantothenic acid on skin. The acid itself is used less often – it is unstable in aqueous formulas, and D-Panthenol has better penetration. In acne and post-procedure skin, pantothenate stimulates reparative processes in keratinocytes.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Pantothenic acid and D-panthenol have shown effects on wound healing, irritation reduction, and barrier support in controlled studies. D-panthenol performs better in head-to-head comparisons – its proalcohol form penetrates the stratum corneum more efficiently. For extension labelling both names need to be recognised.
- Ebner F et al. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2002;3(6):427-433. PMID 12113650
- Proksch E et al. J Dermatol Treat. 2017;28(8):766-773. PMID 28503966
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Pantothenic Acid (vitamin B5) is a water-soluble B-group vitamin. In skin it serves as a precursor of coenzyme A – a key cofactor of lipid, protein, and carbohydrate synthesis. In cosmetics its more stable provitamin form – dexpanthenol (D-Panthenol) – is more often used. Mechanism. Restores skin barrier, accelerates wound and erosion epithelialization, stimulates fibroblast proliferation. Humectant – retains moisture in the stratum corneum. Anti-inflammatory effect via IL-6 and TNF-α suppression (Ebner 2002). Where applied. Repair serums and creams (1–5%), burn and sunburn products, post-procedure products, atopy creams, nipple-crack products (Bepanthen). In Spain in Bepanthen, La Roche-Posay Cicaplast, Avène Cicalfate. Often used as dexpanthenol 2–5%. Evidence base. Camargo 2011 RCT (n=30) showed xerosis and TEWL reduction in 7 days. The Proksch 2017 systematic review confirmed dexpanthenol efficacy in atopic dermatitis, post-burn recovery, and diaper dermatitis prevention. Safety. CIR/SCCS confirmed safety. Hypoallergenic (contact allergies <0.1%), non-comedogenic, does not photosensitize. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. One of the most widely used components in baby and nursing cosmetics. Bepanthen is the drug of choice for nipple cracks and diaper dermatitis. Acceptable at any pregnancy stage on any skin area.
Frequently asked questions
Is Pantothenic Acid safe during pregnancy?
Pantothenic Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Pantothenic Acid for?
Pantothenic Acid suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Pantothenic Acid and what does it do in cosmetics?
Water-soluble vitamin B5, biochemical precursor of coenzyme A.
What's the INCI name for Pantothenic Acid?
The INCI name is Pantothenic Acid. It may also appear as: Vitamin B5.
See Pantothenic Acid in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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