PANTHENOL
Panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is well absorbed when applied topically to the skin and is rapidly oxidized enzymatically in the body to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). Vitamin B5 is a component of coenzyme A, which is involved in various physiological processes such as intracellular lipid synthesis in the epidermis.(1-2) Panthenol penetrates the skin more effectively than vitamin B5 and is very well tolerated.(1–3) Panthenol has skin-nourishing and moisturizing effects and strengthens the skin’s barrier function.(2–5) In dry skin, it compensates for reduced hydration by increasing water content and positively influencing the molecular mobility of the lipid lamellae and proteins in the stratum corneum, thereby also reducing transepidermal water loss.(4–5) Panthenol can support wound healing in cases of burns, scalds, corneal lesions, and allergic dermatitis during all three phases of wound healing and has a protective effect against skin irritation.(5–6)
(1) Zhu, J., Wang, Y. F., Song, S. S., Wu, L. L., Chen, Y., Li, X. Y., & Ju, M. (2023). Alleviating Skin Barrier Disruption, Skin Inflammation, and Pruritus: A Moisturizing Spray Containing β-Glucan and Panthenol. International Journal of Dermatology and Venereology, 6(01), 1–8.
(2) Proksch E, de Bony R, Trapp S, et al. Topical use of dexpanthenol: a 70th anniversary article. J Dermatolog Treat 2017;28(8):766-773. doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/09546634.2017.1325310
(3) Scott LN, Fiume M, Bergfeld WF, et al. Safety Assessment of Panthenol, Pantothenic Acid, and Derivatives as Used in Cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. 2022;41(3_suppl):77-128. doi:10.1177/10915818221124809
(4) Camargo Jr, F. B., Gaspar, L. R., & Maia Campos, P. M. (2011). Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations. Journal of Cosmetic Science, 62(4), 361.
(5) Gorski, J., Proksch, E., Baron, J. M., Schmid, D., & Zhang, L. (2020). Dexpanthenol in wound healing following medical and cosmetic procedures (post-procedure wound healing). Pharmaceuticals, 13(7), 138.
(6) Baron, J. M., Glatz, M., & Proksch, E. (2020). Optimal Support for Wound Healing: New Insights. Dermatology, 236(6), 593-600.
