SkinWis
SkinWis Scientific

Skincare Ingredient

Sign in to save this ingredient

Save ingredients to your skin profile and we'll use them when you look up products — instantly flagging what's reactive, neutral, or works well for your skin.

Panthenol

In Skincare: Is Panthenol Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects

Comedogenicity (pore clogging)
1/5 — Very low risk
Safety (overall safety)
1/5 — Very low risk
Irritancy (skin irritation)
1/5 — Very low risk

Safety Information

Generally well tolerated humectant and skin protectant with very low irritation and allergy risk though rare contact dermatitis reported. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated panthenol and concluded it is safe for use in cosmetics at any concentration.

Quick Insights

At a glance

  • 01

    Panthenol is a widely recognized ingredient known for its hydrating properties.

  • 02

    It may also contribute to reducing the appearance of skin sensitivity.

  • 03

    Panthenol is commonly known as provitamin B5.

Key Benefits

What Panthenol does for your skin

2 benefits
Hydration
Soothing

Overview

Ingredient Profile

Panthenol, a derivative of vitamin B5, is a humectant that draws moisture to the skin and helps prevent water loss. Applied topically, it converts to pantothenic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body, and studies indicate that it can improve skin hydration and suppleness. Research suggests panthenol may also help reduce redness associated with sensitivity, and it is known to support skin barrier repair. Widely used in skincare, haircare, and makeup formulations at concentrations up to 5%, panthenol is considered safe and gentle for topical application.
Classifications
Humectant
Solvent

Data & Research

Scientific Facts

Panthenol and pantothenic acid exhibit identical biological activity, and panthenol can be converted to vitamin B5 within the skin through oxidation. Pantothenic acid is naturally present in all living cells and tissues, playing a role in normal metabolism and hormone production. Cosmetic formulations utilize two forms of panthenol: D-panthenol is a viscous oil, while DL-panthenol is a creamy white crystalline powder.

Common Uses

Formulation in Panthenol

Panthenol provides a lubricating effect on the skin’s surface, contributing to a softer and smoother appearance. It also improves the texture and feel of hair by increasing body, suppleness, or shine, and can help to improve the condition of hair that has been damaged by physical treatments or chemical processes.

Role of Panthenol

Active Cosmetic Mechanisms

ANTISTATIC

Static Eliminator

Reduces static electricity and flyaway hair

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Antistatic agents neutralize electrostatic charges through cationic surfactants (quaternary ammonium compounds like behentrimonium chloride) or conductive polymers that increase surface conductivity to dissipate charge or attract moisture. The mechanism involves forming a conductive film on fiber surfaces, neutralizing charge buildup. Particularly effective on damaged hair with raised cuticles.

HAIR CONDITIONING

Hair Softener

Improves hair manageability, softness, and appearance

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Hair conditioning ingredients smooth the cuticle, reduce frizz, and add shine through cationic surfactants (behentrimonium chloride), silicones (dimethicone, amodimethicone), natural oils, and proteins. These deposit on negatively charged damaged sites, neutralizing charge, filling surface irregularities, and providing lubrication. Mechanism involves electrostatic attraction, film formation, and surface smoothing.

SKIN CONDITIONING

Skin Enhancer

Maintains skin in good condition and improves its feel

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Skin conditioning ingredients enhance appearance, texture, and health of skin through various mechanisms. This broad category encompasses emollients, humectants, occlusives, and other agents that improve skin feel, appearance, and function. May work by moisturizing, smoothing, softening, or protecting skin. Effects include improved tactile properties, enhanced barrier function, and better overall skin condition.

Products

containing Panthenol

15404 formulations
Acne Clearing Wash
Acne Clearing Wash
Peter Thomas Roth · cleanser
Regenerating Face Mask with Snail Extract
Regenerating Face Mask with Snail Extract
Victoria Beauty · masks
Purify Bio Aloe Vera Organic Rice Scrub
Purify Bio Aloe Vera Organic Rice Scrub
Nivea · exfoliators
3 in 1 Repair Hand Cream
3 in 1 Repair Hand Cream
Nivea · body-skincare
Roses of Bulgaria and Hyaluron Cleansing Face Gel
Roses of Bulgaria and Hyaluron Cleansing Face Gel
Victoria Beauty · cleanser
RUBORIL Expert SPF50+
RUBORIL Expert SPF50+
Isispharma · sunscreen
Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser
Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser
Youth To The People · cleanser
Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream
Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream
COSRX · moisturizer
Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser
Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser
La Roche-Posay · cleanser
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
The Ordinary · serums-treatment
See all products with Panthenol

References

Scientific sources

[1]

The Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Accessed April 2021, ePublication

[2]

International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2019, pages 534-547

[3]

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, January 2019, pages 346-354

[4]

Cosmetic Ingredient Review, March 2018, pages 1-51

[5]

The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, August 2017, pages 173-180

[6]

Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2011, pages 361-370

[7]

American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, Volume 3, 2002, pages 427-433

Semantic Analysis

Similar Ingredients

Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Panthenol — common questions

What is Panthenol in skincare?

Panthenol is a derivative of vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid). It’s used in a wide range of cosmetic and personal care products, including moisturizers, skincare, hair conditioners, shampoos, styling aids (wave sets and hair sprays), and makeup such as eyeshadow, lipstick, and mascara.

What does Panthenol do? / Functions of Panthenol?

Common functions: ANTISTATIC, HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING.

What is the comedogenic rating of Panthenol? / Is Panthenol comedogenic?
1 1/5 — Very low risk

Panthenol has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is unlikely to clog pores.

Does it clog pores?
Unlikely to Clog Pores

Panthenol is unlikely to clog pores (rating 1/5).

Is Panthenol safe for skin?
1 1/5 — Very low risk

Panthenol has a safety rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Generally well tolerated humectant and skin protectant with very low irritation and allergy risk though rare contact dermatitis reported. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluate

Is Panthenol good for sensitive skin?
1 1/5 — Very low risk

Panthenol has an irritancy rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally well-tolerated.

What are the side effects of Panthenol in skincare?

Known considerations: Generally well tolerated humectant and skin protectant with very low irritation and allergy risk though rare contact dermatitis reported. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated panthenol and concluded it is safe for use in cosmetics at any concentration.

)