Vitamin B5

What is Vitamin B5?

Vitamin B5 refers to panthenol, the provitamin form of pantothenic acid, a naturally occurring water-soluble vitamin essential for cellular processes. Synthetically produced for cosmetics, it is a colorless, slightly viscous liquid soluble in water and alcohol. Commonly found in lotions, creams, shampoos, conditioners, and serums, panthenol serves as a humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin's outer layer and hair cuticle. As a skin conditioning agent, it softens and smooths by forming a protective film. In hair care, it excels as a hair conditioner and antistatic agent, coating strands to minimize friction, static buildup, and tangles. Upon absorption, panthenol transforms into pantothenic acid, aiding hydration without residue. Its lightweight nature suits all product types, from rinse-off to leave-on, and it integrates well in emulsions.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Antistatic agent
Reduces static electricity and flyaways by improving surface conductivity, enhancing hair manageability and smoothness in conditioners and styling products.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Supports skin softness and flexibility through moisturizing action.

Improves hair shine, manageability, and reduces static electricity.

Enhances overall smoothness for both skin and hair surfaces.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with dry or rough skin seeking hydration.
Persons with rare allergies to pantothenic acid derivatives.
People with frizzy, static-prone hair needing conditioning.
Individuals sensitive to humectants in high concentrations.
Those preferring gentle, multifunctional cosmetic ingredients.
Anyone experiencing irritation from similar conditioning agents.

Safety Notes

  • Consistently rated low hazard by safety assessments.
  • Non-comedogenic, suitable for acne-prone skin types.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vitamin B5

What is Vitamin B5 in cosmetics?

Panthenol, the provitamin of pantothenic acid, used as a humectant and conditioner in skin and hair products.

Is Vitamin B5 safe for daily use?

Yes, it carries low safety concerns and is suitable for most formulations.

Does Vitamin B5 cause irritation?

It has low irritation potential based on evaluations.