Vitamin B5 (Panthenol)
Vitamin B5, also known as panthenol, is a popular skincare and haircare ingredient that helps hydrate, soften and smooth. It is a form of vitamin B5 that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin, making it a gentle yet effective choice for everyday beauty products.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, panthenol functions as a humectant, emollient and soothing agent. It penetrates the upper layers of the skin and hair shaft where it binds with water, helping to maintain moisture levels, improve elasticity and create a smooth, protective barrier. Its excellent compatibility with other ingredients makes it a staple in moisturisers, serums, conditioners, shampoos and leave-in hair treatments across the UK beauty market.
Key benefits
- Deeply hydrates skin and hair
- Improves skin softness and smoothness
- Strengthens hair and reduces split ends
- Helps soothe dry or irritated skin
- Enhances skin barrier function
- Adds shine and manageability to hair
Best for
dry skin, sensitive skin, mature skin, irritated skin, all skin types
Where it comes from
Panthenol is the alcohol form of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). While it can be produced synthetically, it is often derived from natural sources such as rice bran, sunflower seeds, or maize.