What is panthenol and what does it do?
Arin Editorial · how this is made
When you see panthenol on a label, you are likely looking at a moisturizer, shampoo, or sunscreen. This ingredient, a precursor of vitamin B5, is a common helper in skincare.
Where do you encounter it?
It appears in creams, lotions, lip care, sunscreens, and hair care products. It is also used in wound-healing ointments. Cosmetic panthenol is produced synthetically.
What does it do?
It traps moisture in the skin and helps maintain good skin condition. It softens hair, makes it easier to comb, and reduces static. It also supports wound healing, which is why it is used in medicinal products. It does not clog pores, so it won't cause blackheads.
What do safety tests show?
Skin and eye irritation data are mixed. Tests following OECD guidelines found no significant irritation, but other classifications in the database suggest mild irritation may be possible. In a high-concentration patch test on humans, 2 out of 192 people had an allergic reaction, a low rate. In a lotion study with 0.5% panthenol, a few people reported mild burning.
What do regulators say?
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel found this ingredient safe. It is approved for use in cosmetics in the European Union under Regulation EC 1223/2009.
It is approved for cosmetic use in the European Union under EC 1223/2009; it is not on the list of prohibited or restricted substances.
If you see panthenol on a label, there is no reason to worry. If your skin is very sensitive, try the product on your inner arm first. Allergic reactions are rare, but if you get redness or itching, stop using it and consult a doctor.
Sources
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Panthenol safety assessment
- EPA ToxValDB - panthenol dermal/eye irritation records
- INCI API (inciapi.com) - Panthenol
- Cosmileeurope (cosmileeurope.eu) - Panthenol