The cosmetic industry incorporates panthenol into a wide range of products. You can verify this by checking the ingredients in the cosmetics you regularly use. Panthenol is also present in some foods, vitamin supplements, and hygiene products that we use daily.
Panthenol has a chemical structure similar to that of alcohol. Its use is well-established for promoting hydration and enhancing the softness of the skin and hair. It can be applied topically to the skin or hair, or ingested through products.
Are you aware of the safety associated with the daily use of this compound for personal care? In this article, we review all the information related to panthenol and assess the safety of its use and consumption.
Table of Contents
What Exactly Is Panthenol?
Panthenol is a chemical derived from pantothenic acid, which is also known as vitamin B5. It is a natural and organic compound that can be obtained from both animal and plant sources. Panthenol is primarily used as an additive in personal hygiene products and is prevalent in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
A balanced diet provides pantothenic acid to our bodies, as it is found in various common foods. Additionally, many everyday cosmetic products also contain panthenol. Panthenol is a regular part of our daily lives.
Appearance and Form of Presentation
Panthenol appears as a white powder in its solid state and as a semi-transparent oil in its liquid state. In cosmetic ingredients lists, it may be listed under various names, including:
- Pantothenic acid alcohol
- Provitamin B-5
- Butanamide
- Dexpanthenol
- D-pantothenol
When ingested through food, panthenol is quickly converted into vitamin B5 by our body.
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Functions of Panthenol
When used as an additive in cosmetics for skin and hair applications, panthenol primarily functions as a moisturizing agent. It helps to soften, soothe, and prevent skin irritation. Its composition also helps reduce water loss from the surface layers of the epidermis.
Hair Application Products
Panthenol is commonly included in softening compounds and hair creams to enhance shine, make hair silkier and softer, and increase its strength. It achieves this by facilitating hydration and aiding in the absorption of other ingredients. It is often found in products designed to reduce thinning hair, supported by several research studies.
Skin Application Products
Panthenol, or vitamin B5, is frequently used to improve skin hydration. It is considered an essential component of a healthy diet and is commonly found in products such as lipsticks, foundations, and mascaras. Many moisturizers incorporate panthenol, especially those aimed at relieving irritated skin or soothing insect bites and skin friction from clothing or diapers. In cosmetics, panthenol acts as a moisturizer, emollient, and hydrating agent. It binds easily to hair follicles and is a common ingredient in shampoos and conditioners (in concentrations of 0.1-1%).
The National Center for Biotechnology Information recognizes panthenol as a skin protector with anti-inflammatory activity. Consequently, it is also included in aftershaves, shaving creams, moisturizers, and products that aid wound healing.
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Nail Application Products
Nails and hair share similarities, both containing keratin proteins. Panthenol’s positive effects on skin hydration and hardness also apply to nails, where it enhances brightness and strength. This compound is included in nail care products, such as hand creams and protective oils. Research studies, including those on ResearchGate, confirm its effectiveness in reducing nail breakage.
Safety and Allergic Reactions
Pantothenic acid, vitamin B5, or panthenol is considered safe by various regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Commission of Cosmetic Ingredients. It is deemed safe for topical use in children and is found in creams and lotions for children. However, it is important to consider that safety confirmations are based on current evidence, and no significant adverse effects have been scientifically proven.
Allergic reactions to topical panthenol are extremely rare. If they occur, they may cause contact dermatitis. Ingesting panthenol may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The concentration of panthenol in cosmetic products is often lower than the amount naturally ingested through food, so there is no evidence suggesting it has a negative effect on the body.
