What Is Panthenol?
Panthenol, widely known as provitamin B5, is the alcohol analog of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and one of the most requested soothing and hydrating actives in 2026 cosmetic formulation. It is a white, crystalline, water-soluble powder supplied for personal care use in both D- and DL- grades. Inside the skin, tissue enzymes oxidize panthenol into free pantothenic acid — the biologically active form of vitamin B5 and a building block of coenzyme A. CAS No.: 81-13-0 (D-Panthenol) / 16485-10-2 (DL-Panthenol). INCI Name: Panthenol.
Mechanism of Action
Conversion to pantothenic acid links panthenol directly to coenzyme A synthesis, which drives the lipid biosynthesis — ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids — that rebuild the stratum corneum barrier. Formulations with 1–5% panthenol measurably reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and accelerate barrier recovery after acid peels, retinoid use or dermatological procedures.
Panthenol is also a powerful multi-layer humectant: it binds water in both the stratum corneum and deeper epidermal layers for immediate and lasting hydration. Its documented anti-inflammatory effect calms erythema and supports fibroblast proliferation, improving skin elasticity and the visible wound-healing response.
Key Application Areas
- Facial moisturizers & barrier-repair creams — core soothing active paired with niacinamide, ceramides and retinol.
- Sensitive-skin & post-procedure care — reduces redness after peels, microneedling and aesthetic treatments.
- Hair care — film-forming hydration that boosts shine, flexibility and resistance to breakage.
- Sun care & after-sun products — soothes UV-stressed skin and replenishes moisture loss.
- Baby care & gentle cleansers — mild, non-irritating conditioning for everyday rinse-off formats.
VeraVita Supply
VeraVita Biotech supplies high-purity Panthenol (≥99%) in bulk to cosmetic, personal care and nutritional manufacturers worldwide. Every batch is backed by full specifications covering assay, moisture and heavy metals, with COA and MSDS available on request. We support OEM/ODM projects and flexible packing from 1 kg samples to full container loads. Contact info@veravitabio.com today for a quotation and free sample.