Panthenol (Provitamin B5) Powder

Panthenol (also known as Provitamin B5) is a powerful moisturizing and soothing ingredient used in skin, hair, and nail care formulations. It’s one of the most versatile actives in cosmetics — gentle, effective, and compatible with nearly all types of formulations.

• INCI name: Panthenol
• Appearance: white powder
• Solubility: Freely soluble in water, ethanol, and propylene glycol
• pH stability: Most stable between 4.0 – 7.0

Functions in Cosmetics

1. Moisturizer (Humectant): Attracts and retains water in skin and hair. Improves softness, elasticity, and hydration.

2. Soothing & Healing: Reduces irritation, redness, and itching. Common in after-sun, after-shave, and baby care products.

3. Barrier Repair: Enhances skin’s natural barrier by supporting lipid synthesis and healing microdamage.

4. Hair Strengthener & Conditioner: Penetrates the hair shaft and binds moisture, improving shine, elasticity, and manageability. Reduces split ends and breakage.

5. Nail Care: Strengthens brittle nails and promotes flexibility.

Applications

• Moisturizing creams and lotions
• Hair conditioners, shampoos, and leave-ins
• Scalp serums and soothing gels
• Baby lotions and wound-healing balms
• Aftershave and after-sun products

Formulation Guidelines

• Typical use level 0.5–5% (1–2% common in skincare; 1–3% in haircare)
• Form D-Panthenol (active form) preferred over DL-Panthenol (racemic, less active)
• Solubility Completely water soluble
• Phase Add during cool-down phase (below 45 °C)
• Compatibility Works with glycerin, hyaluronic acid, allantoin, niacinamide, PVP, cationic surfactants
• pH stability Best between 4–7; degrades in strong acid or base

Safety profile

• Non-toxic, non-irritating, and hypoallergenic
• Well tolerated by sensitive skin and scalp
• Widely approved for use in all cosmetic categories