Panthenol: Cosmetic properties of Provitamin B5 for the skin

Panthenol is a B-group vitamin, also known as provitamin B5. This substance is widely used in the cosmetics industry for its beneficial properties on the skin and hair. Due to its moisturising, healing and soothing action, panthenol is considered a key ingredient in numerous cosmetic product formulations.

Panthenol cream: what is it and what is it used for?

Panthenol cream is a preparation recommended for those who need to treat skin that has been exposed to a number of irritating or particularly aggressive external agents. From sweat to urine, from prolonged contact of sensitive skin with certain fabrics or detergents to nappy irritation: there are many occasions when panthenol cream proves extremely useful.

Elderly children in particular, who normally have sensitive and very delicate skin, benefit from this. Simply cleanse the area to be treated and apply a generous layer of cream, spreading it gently, to benefit from its effectiveness.

Solid Conditioning Shampoo – Provitamina B5

Among the many products containing panthenol is “Solid Conditioning Shampoo“, which we have included in the catalogue of contract soaps produced by Albogroup.

An ultra-delicate treatment whose main ingredients, in addition to Provitamin B5, include organic Argan oil and oat extract. By using this shampoo and conditioner regularly, hair is bound to remain soft and light.

Thanks to panthenol, it will also become shinier. Simply use it like an ordinary shampoo, massaging it into the scalp for a few moments.

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Panthenol or provitamin B5 

If vitamin B5 is recognised as playing a leading role in metabolism and in making the skin “work” optimally in general, panthenol is the precursor of this vitamin.

Also known as D-pantothenic acid or pantothenic acid, this molecule is converted into vitamin B5 by means of a chemical reaction. Using topical application of panthenol, the epidermis has no problem metabolising the molecule, allowing it to penetrate by virtue of its low molecular weight.

The name panthenol derives from the Greek word “pantos”, which can be translated into Italian as “on all sides”. And indeed, it is easy to find vitamin B5 in both the animal and plant kingdoms, albeit in limited quantities.

How is panthenol used?

You can use panthenol in different ways. Many cosmetic products include it as an ingredient. The percentages tend to vary, ranging from a minimum of 0.1% to a maximum of 10%.

Panthenol can also be purchased pure. In this case, it is important to refer to what is indicated on the label.

It can be mixed with water, or combined in masks, shampoos, conditioners and other hair products such as split ends serums. It can also be used in soothing creams, moisturisers, after-sun creams, sensitive skin creams and aftershaves.

It should be remembered that its consistency is bound to vary with temperature. If stored at room temperature, for example, it appears viscous and sticky. Panthenol in pure form is very concentrated. Consequently, only a small amount is needed to achieve the desired results.

What are the properties and benefits for the skin?

The properties of panthenol are numerous. First of all, provitamin B5 has soothing abilities, being able to relieve redness and irritation of the skin.

It is also anti-itch, making it an excellent remedy especially if the itching originates from stings, sunburn or eczema.

Its reparative action is remarkable, speeding up the skin’s regeneration process and repairing the skin’s natural barrier function.

By reducing water loss, it makes the skin softer, protects it and helps it to remain elastic over time. The elasticising properties of panthenol are linked to its ability to stimulate fibroblasts to generate elastic fibres. Provitamin B5 is also beneficial when used on dry hands and lips.

Another function is moisturising. Panthenol attracts and retains water within the skin. Studies have been carried out that show that skin hydration and resilience tend to increase following the application of creams containing provitamin B5.

All the properties mentioned so far have led to the molecule being considered an effective remedy against skin ageing. But panthenol is also suitable for treating the hair. It is a valuable conditioner, making the hair silkier and shinier at the same time. People living with dull, dry, arid or weak hair in particular benefit from it.

Products containing panthenol make styling smoother and free those with long hair from the hassle of knots. Those with curls, on the other hand, will find them more defined. It gives the best results for hair prone to frizz, repeatedly dyed and after aggressive treatments.

In several cases, it is added to cosmetic preparations to alleviate the irritating effect of perfumes, surfactants and preservatives. It is also useful in reducing the side effects of therapies using retinoids.

How do you detect panthenol in cosmetics?

To find out whether or not a specific cosmetic contains panthenol, simply check what is listed in the INCI. In addition to appearing under that name, or as Provitamin B5, the list of ingredients might present it as Pantothenic Acid, Panthenyl Ethyl Ether, Panthenyl Ether Acetate, Panthenyl Triacetate, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Pantothenate, D-Pantothenic Alcohol and Butanamide.