
General Description
D-Panthenol, also known as Provitamin B5, is a highly effective moisturizing and conditioning agent widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulations. It is the biologically active enantiomer of Panthenol and is converted in the skin into pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5), an essential component for maintaining healthy skin and hair. D-Panthenol is a colorless, viscous liquid or crystalline powder, soluble in water and alcohol, making it easy to incorporate into a variety of formulations. It is valued for its hydrating, soothing, and healing properties, which help to improve the overall health and appearance of skin and hair.
Uses in the Cosmetics Industry
D-Panthenol is a multifunctional ingredient with widespread applications in personal care products:
- Skin Care (Creams, Lotions, Serums): Provides deep hydration, reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and enhances skin softness and elasticity.
- Hair Care (Shampoos, Conditioners, Treatments): Improves hair moisture retention, adds shine, and strengthens hair fibers to reduce breakage.
- Wound-Healing & Soothing Products: Used in after-sun lotions, baby creams, and soothing balms due to its skin-repairing and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Makeup Products: Helps improve the smoothness and spreadability of cosmetic formulations while keeping skin moisturized.
- Nail Care: Strengthens nails and helps prevent brittleness.
Its gentle, non-irritating profile makes D-Panthenol highly suitable for sensitive skin and baby care formulations.
Hazards
D-Panthenol is generally recognized as safe, non-toxic, and well-tolerated in cosmetic applications. However, a few considerations apply:
- Skin Reactions: Rare cases of mild irritation or allergic reactions have been reported, particularly in individuals with hypersensitive skin.
- Eye Contact: May cause temporary irritation if accidentally introduced into the eyes in high concentrations.
- Formulation Limits: Excessive concentrations may lead to stickiness in topical products, affecting user experience rather than safety.
With proper formulation practices, D-Panthenol is regarded as one of the safest and most effective active ingredients in cosmetics.
CAS Number: 81-13-0
INCI: Panthenol
Composition: D-Panthenol is the dextrorotatory isomer of panthenol (provitamin B5). It is a stable alcohol analogue of pantothenic acid, readily converted into pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) in the skin and hair.
Purity Grade: Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Grade
Appearance: Clear, colorless to slightly yellow, viscous liquid
Solubility: Freely soluble in water, ethanol, and propylene glycol; insoluble in oils and fats
Preservation: D-Panthenol itself is chemically stable and does not require preservatives in raw material form. In formulations, preservation depends on system composition.
Storage: Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Protect from light and excessive heat to maintain stability.
Raw Material Sources: Produced synthetically from petrochemical-derived or glucose-based intermediates, then refined to high purity.
Manufacture: Industrially synthesized via controlled chemical synthesis and purification, ensuring high purity of the dextrorotatory isomer (D-form).
Animal Testing: Not animal tested
GMO: GMO-free (synthetic origin)
Vegan: Does not contain animal-derived components
Proposition: D-PANTHENOL complies with cosmetic and pharmaceutical regulatory requirements, including EU Cosmetic Regulation and U.S. FDA guidelines.
Warning: Avoid direct eye contact. Use gloves and protective equipment during handling in raw form. For external use in cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications only.
THE STORY OF D-PANTHENOL
D-Panthenol: The Pro-Vitamin B5 for Deep Moisture & Repair
D-Panthenol, also known as Pro-Vitamin B5, is a powerful moisturizing and repairing ingredient widely used in skincare, haircare, and personal-care formulations. It helps restore the skin barrier, improve hydration, and promote healing — leaving skin soft and hair smooth, shiny, and strong.
The Active Form of Vitamin B5 – A Biocompatible Humectant
D-Panthenol is the biologically active enantiomer of Panthenol, the alcohol analog of pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5).
Once absorbed by the skin or hair, it is converted into pantothenic acid, a key component of Coenzyme A, which supports cellular repair and regeneration.
TRCkem supplies high-purity D-Panthenol (≥98%) in liquid or powder form, suitable for both leave-on and rinse-off cosmetics.
Moisturize. Heal. Strengthen.
D-Panthenol delivers multi-functional benefits across beauty and personal care:
✅ Deep hydration & moisture retention for long-lasting softness
✅ Enhances skin elasticity and promotes barrier repair
✅ Soothes irritation and redness — perfect for sensitive skin
✅ Improves hair strength, shine & manageability
✅ Adds a luxurious feel to lotions and serums
Commonly used in: facial creams, after-sun gels, baby care, shampoos, conditioners, serums, and healing ointments.
Highly Stable, Safe & Globally Approved Pro-Vitamin
• Typical use level: 0.5–5% in skin & hair formulations
• Soluble in water, alcohols, and glycols — easy to add to aqueous phase
• Stable across pH 4–7 and under moderate heat (avoid prolonged >70°C)
• Non-irritating, non-toxic, and ECOCERT / COSMOS approved
• Suitable for sensitive skin and baby care formulations
• Store sealed, in a cool, dry place away from light
• Approved globally (EU, US, ASEAN, India, Japan) for cosmetic & dermal applications
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is D-Panthenol?
D-Panthenol is the provitamin of Vitamin B5, widely used in personal care and cosmetic formulations. It acts as a humectant, moisturizer, and conditioning agent, supporting skin hydration, soothing irritation, and improving hair strength and shine.
2. What is the CAS Number and INCI Name of D-Panthenol?
CAS Number: 81-13-0
INCI Name: Panthenol
3. What are the benefits of using D-Panthenol in personal care products?
Deep Moisturization: Enhances skin hydration and prevents dryness.
Soothing Effect: Helps calm redness, irritation, and sensitivity.
Skin Barrier Support: Improves elasticity and promotes skin repair.
Hair Strengthening: Reduces split ends, improves shine, and enhances hair softness.
Multi-functionality: Works in both skincare and haircare formulations.
4. Is D-Panthenol safe for use in personal care products?
Yes, D-Panthenol is considered safe and well-tolerated. It is non-toxic, non-irritating, and suitable for daily use, even on sensitive skin. Regulatory authorities allow its widespread use in both rinse-off and leave-on formulations.
5. Can D-Panthenol cause skin irritation?
In general, D-Panthenol is very well-tolerated and rarely causes irritation. However, in extremely rare cases, individuals with sensitivities may experience mild reactions. Patch testing is always recommended before full application.
6. Is D-Panthenol environmentally friendly?
Yes, D-Panthenol is biodegradable and considered eco-friendly. It is derived from safe synthetic processes and poses minimal environmental risk when used in cosmetic concentrations.