DL-Panthenol (Vitamin B5): A Natural Alternative for Hair and Skin Hydration
DL-Panthenol, also known as Pro-Vitamin B5, is a versatile, water-soluble ingredient with excellent hydrating and conditioning properties for both hair and skin. It is widely recognized as a milder, eco-friendly alternative to silicones, commonly used in skincare and hair care formulations. DL-Panthenol plays a vital role in increasing moisture retention, boosting hair shine, and improving the softness of skin, making it ideal for use in creams, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, suntan products, and hair sprays. This powerful ingredient is a racemic mixture of D-Panthenol and L-Panthenol, with D-Panthenol being converted to Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) in the skin, a key factor in maintaining healthy, hydrated hair and skin.
Key Features & Benefits
- Hydration & Moisture Retention: DL-Panthenol penetrates deep into both the skin and hair shaft, offering long-lasting moisture retention. This helps reduce transepidermal water loss, improving skin elasticity, softness, and hydration while adding shine and manageability to hair.
- Natural Alternative to Silicones: Unlike harsh silicones, DL-Panthenol is a natural, gentle alternative that works well for people with sensitive skin or hair, making it perfect for use in formulations intended for frequent use or those with delicate skin.
- Soothes and Protects: DL-Panthenol soothes irritated skin, making it a valuable ingredient for creams and lotions that address conditions such as dryness, itchiness, and inflammation. In hair care, it helps prevent breakage and strengthens hair fibers.
- Versatile Use: Being water-soluble, DL-Panthenol integrates effortlessly into various formulations, including shampoos, conditioners, lotions, creams, body washes, and even sunscreens.
Ingredients (Common Name): dl-Panthenol
Ingredients (INCI Name): Panthenol
Appearance: White crystalline powder
Solubility: Water Soluble
Suggested Uses: Lotions, Creams, Hair Shampoos, Hair Conditioners,Shampoos, Suntan products and after-sun creams
Country of Origin: China
Recommended Usage
- Usage Rate: 1% to 5%, depending on desired effects. Higher percentages are ideal for deep hydration and repair, while lower percentages are effective for general moisturizing.
- Formulation Tips:
- In Skincare Products: Add DL-Panthenol to the heated water phase of your formulation for better solubility. It can be used in creams, lotions, facial washes, and after-sun products to provide soothing hydration.
- In Haircare Products: Use DL-Panthenol in shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks. It is effective in both rinse-off and leave-in formulations, adding shine, reducing breakage, and promoting hair health.
- General Formulating Tips: DL-Panthenol can be used in a wide pH range (5-7) and should be heated to dissolve in the water phase.
Why DL-Panthenol is Essential for Hair and Skin Care
- Promotes Moisturization: DL-Panthenol improves the stratum corneum’s hydration, helping the skin retain moisture and elasticity while reducing roughness, flakiness, and dry patches.
- Soothes Irritation: Its anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for formulations designed to soothe irritated skin, such as after-sun lotions or creams for sensitive skin.
- Strengthens Hair: DL-Panthenol adds strength and resilience to hair, reducing breakage, improving elasticity, and giving hair a fuller appearance. It's a popular ingredient in shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments.
- Improves Skin Barrier Function: By enhancing the skin’s barrier, DL-Panthenol helps prevent water loss and protects the skin from environmental damage.
Benefits for Hair and Skin
- Skin Health: Studies have shown that DL-Panthenol helps in wound healing and promotes epithelialization (the growth of skin cells), making it ideal for use in products for damaged or sensitive skin. It also helps reduce redness, inflammation, and itching, making it a go-to ingredient for soothing formulations.
- Hair Protection: DL-Panthenol is known to increase the diameter of hair fibers, which results in fuller, more voluminous hair. It also helps reduce split ends and static, adding a glossy finish to hair care products.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Storage: Store DL-Panthenol in a cool, dark place, away from moisture and light to maintain its quality and stability. Proper storage conditions help extend the shelf life up to 2 years.
- Shelf Life: 2 years if stored correctly.
Safety Guidelines
DL-Panthenol is intended for external use only. It is safe to use in both hair and skincare formulations but should not be ingested. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant individuals and those with sensitive skin should consult with a healthcare provider before use.
