Panthenol (Provitamin B5)
Panthenol is a provitamin that turns into vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) in the skin and is known for its moisturising and soothing effect. It is often used in nappy rash creams, after-sun products and barrier-repair creams. In cosmetic use it is among the ingredients in the lowest risk group; contact allergy has been reported, although very rarely.
Risk range
1 is the lowest and 10 the highest risk. The range depends on the amount used, whether the product is rinsed off and how it is used. The Temiz İçerik app uses the same ranges.
The lower end applies to almost all uses; the upper end only reflects the possibility of rare contact allergy.
What is panthenol and what does it do?
Panthenol is the alcohol form of pantothenic acid, known as vitamin B5. When applied to the skin or hair it is easily absorbed and converted into pantothenic acid in the tissues; that is why it is called provitamin B5. In cosmetics, the biologically active form D-panthenol (dexpanthenol) is preferred.
Panthenol is a humectant that attracts and holds moisture. It has been shown to support the repair of the skin barrier and help relieve redness and itching. In hair it coats the surface of the strand, adding shine and softness and making combing easier.
Which products contain it?
- Nappy rash and barrier-repair creams
- After-sun lotions and gels
- Moisturisers, lip care products and eye creams
- Shampoos, conditioners and hair sprays
- Aftershave products
On the label it is listed as Panthenol, D-Panthenol or Dexpanthenol. Some wound-care creams sold in pharmacies contain the same substance at a higher concentration.
Is it harmful? The scientific assessment
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has concluded that panthenol and pantothenic acid are safe for cosmetic use. Vitamin B5 is a vitamin we already get from food, and it plays a part in the body's natural metabolism.
Panthenol does not irritate the skin and is used freely even in baby products. Rare cases of contact allergy have been reported in the literature; these are usually linked to products used frequently over long periods and applied to damaged skin. For the general population this risk is very low.
Who should be careful?
- People who have previously reacted to a cream containing panthenol: If redness or itching developed, it is helpful to avoid similar products and, if necessary, see a dermatologist for a patch test.
- Open and infected wounds: Although panthenol is used in wound care, for large or inflamed wounds you should follow a doctor's advice rather than use a cosmetic product.
What to do when you see it on a label
Panthenol is one of the ingredients you can relax about when you see it on a label. It is a good choice especially for dry, sensitive or irritated skin. When using drying actives such as retinol and acid peels, support from a moisturiser containing panthenol can help the skin adjust more comfortably. Similarly, the moisturising ingredients glycerin and sodium hyaluronate and barrier-supporting ceramides work well alongside panthenol.
Frequently asked questions
Can panthenol be used on babies?
Yes. Panthenol is a well-tolerated ingredient widely used in baby products, including nappy rash creams.
Does panthenol prevent hair loss?
Panthenol moisturises the hair strand and makes it look strong and shiny; however, there is no strong evidence that it treats hair loss.
Are panthenol and dexpanthenol the same thing?
Dexpanthenol is the biologically active D form of panthenol. On cosmetic labels both are used for the same purpose.
Is panthenol good for sunburn?
Gels and lotions containing panthenol can help moisturise and soothe skin after sunburn. For burns that blister, cover a large area or come with a fever, however, you should see a doctor.
Sources
Updated: 2026-10-11 · How we score
This page is for general information and is not personal medical advice. Warnings on the product label and the advice of a health professional always come first.