INCI: Panthenol

Panthenol is an alcohol analog of pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5), and thus a provitamin of B5. It is an odorless, transparent, highly viscous, and colorless liquid at room temperature. It is used as a moisturizer and humectant in cosmetics and personal care products. Panthenol is found in lotions, ointments, nasal sprays, eye drops, cleaning solutions for contact lenses, etc. Panthenol comes in two enantiomers: D, and L. Only D-panthenol (dexpanthenol) is biologically active. For cosmetic use, panthenol comes either in D form or as a racemic mixture of D and L (DL-panthenol).
Skin care: It improves hydration and elasticity of the skin, reduces itching and inflammation of the skin, improves skin elasticity, and accelerates the rate of healing of wounds. In topical creams, it is found to be in a concentration of 1-5%
Hair care: It binds to the hair shaft readily, so, it is a common component of commercial shampoos and hair conditioners (in concentrations of 0.1-1%). It coats the hair and seals its surface, lubricating the hair shaft and giving it a shiny appearance. It can also help protect your hair from styling or environmental damage by locking in moisture
What does PANTHENOL do in a formulation?
Hair conditioning
Humectant
Skin conditioning
Soothing