Ingredient dictionary

Panthenol

Also listed as: Pro-Vitamin B5, Dexpanthenol

Panthenol is a form of vitamin B5 that the skin and hair convert to pantothenic acid. Its main job is to help hold moisture and soothe. It is on the label of 242 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Panthenol does

Helps skin and hair hold moisture
Softens and smooths dry skin
Helps hair feel softer and smoother

Panthenol is made chemically from pantothenic acid, the vitamin B5 your body uses to make coenzyme A. Once on skin or hair, it is converted back into pantothenic acid.

Formulators use it mostly as a humectant, which means it pulls water toward the outer layer of skin and hair. That is why it shows up in shampoos, moisturizers, sunscreens, cleansers and serums. It feels light and smooth, blends easily into water-based products, and rarely leaves a heavy or sticky finish.

Good for

Suits dry, tight or easily irritated skin, and dry or damaged hair, and is common in everyday cleansers and moisturizers.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is panthenol the same as vitamin B5?

Panthenol is a form of vitamin B5 that skin and hair convert into pantothenic acid. It is used in products for its moisture-holding and soothing properties. It is applied to skin or hair, so it is not the same as taking vitamin B5 by mouth.

Is panthenol good for sensitive skin?

Panthenol is generally well tolerated and is common in products for sensitive or dry skin. As with any ingredient, a small patch test on the inner arm is a good idea if your skin reacts easily. Stop using a product if you notice redness or itching.