This Under-the-Radar Ingredient Can Do So Much for Your Skin and Hair

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In recent years, the concept of reading the ingredient labels of your products has become standard practice. The arduous part, however, is figuring out the purpose of those hard-to-pronounce ingredients. Chances are you've stumbled over panthenol but never quite understood what it is or does. The topical application of panthenol can increase the moisture and hydration levels of the skin, making it the perfect addition to any cosmetics, hair, or skincare product. If you're interested in learning more, here's everything you need to know about this ingredient superstar is below.

What Is Panthenol?

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Panthenol is an alcohol derivative of pantothenic acid. The ingredient converts to provitamin B5 when absorbed by the skin. Its primary use in the beauty industry is to hydrate and soothe the skin. You'll find it in moisturizers, concealers, and leave-in conditioners. Basically, anything that works to restore moisture to the skin and hair. You might also see it listed as D-pantothenol alcohol, dexpanthenol, and that beloved provitamin B5.

According to board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, most formulas on the market use anywhere from 1 5%, but "the concentration may not always be on the label in every product." What most people don't know is that ingredients are listed by concentration. The higher up on the list, the more prominent the compound is in the formula.

Who Can Use It?

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"While it can be used by all skin types and all skin conditions, it is perfect for those with dry skin to help the skin feel soft and smooth," details Garshick. Since it is a well-tolerated ingredient, her only warning is consistent with what she recommends to clients who use any new product—patch test first. This process allows you to gauge if you're sensitive or allergic to the formula as a whole.

What Are the Benefits of Panthenol?

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Garshick speaks of three significant benefits of this derivative. "In addition to being helpful and moisturizing the skin, it can also have benefits for the hair, helping to make it appear softer and smoother," she says. "It helps to retain moisture and prevents transepidermal water loss by supporting skin barrier function. Additionally, it can also help with wound healing."

Panthenol frequently is used as a liquid in formulas, which means it counts as a humectant. If you are not familiar, this class of ingredients attracts moisture from the environment and pulls it into the hair and skin. As such, you'll want to verify the formula includes occlusives. They seal all of that rich hydration into the subject in need of moisture.

Are There Drawbacks to Using It?

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There are no significant drawbacks to speak of, which makes panthenol suitable for everyone, including our friends with sensitive skin. It's nontoxic, with minimal risk of adverse reactions.

Products with Panthenol to Try

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Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.