Panthenol

1. What is Panthenol?

Panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is a biologically active compound used in dermatology for its moisturizing, soothing, and repairing properties. After topical application, it is absorbed into the skin and converted into pantothenic acid, a precursor of coenzyme A, which is essential for fatty acid metabolism, cell repair, and barrier regeneration.

2. How does Panthenol Work?

Topically applied panthenol works through multiple mechanisms:

  • Moisturizing: Acts as a humectant, attracting and holding water in the stratum corneum.
  • Soothing: Reduces inflammation and calms irritated skin by supporting the skin’s natural repair process.
  • Repairing: Promotes fibroblast proliferation and epithelial regeneration.
  • Barrier Enhancement: Supports lipid synthesis and strengthens the skin’s defense against environmental stressors.
  • Improved Elasticity & Texture: Enhances skin softness and suppleness.

These combined actions make panthenol a versatile active for both everyday hydration and therapeutic care.

3. How Panthenol Helps in Common Skin Conditions?

Panthenol can provide therapeutic benefits in various skin conditions:

  • Dry Skin: By its humectant and emollient properties, panthenol effectively improves skin hydration and reduces dryness, leaving the skin soft and supple.
  • Irritated Skin: Its anti-inflammatory action helps to soothe and calm irritated skin caused by factors like environmental stressors, harsh products, or skin conditions.
  • Sensitive Skin: Panthenol’s gentle and hydrating nature makes it suitable for sensitive skin, helping to strengthen the skin barrier and improve tolerance.
  • Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Panthenol can help to relieve symptoms of eczema, such as dryness, itching, and inflammation, by improving skin hydration and barrier function.

4. Panthenol in Metabase Cream

In Metabase Cream, panthenol is part of a synergistic formula that includes urea, glucosylceramides, and allantoin. Together, these ingredients hydrate, repair, and protect the skin.
Panthenol enhances the skin’s ability to recover from dryness, inflammation, and barrier damage — making Metabase ideal for individuals with dry, reactive, or post-treatment skin.

5. Safety and Tolerability

Panthenol has an excellent safety profile in topical applications. Clinical and patch‑test data show it to be:

  • Non‑sensitizing and hypoallergenic: Rarely causes allergic or irritant dermatitis, even in sensitive skin.
  • Non‑comedogenic: Does not block pores or worsen acne.
  • pH‑stable and formulation‑friendly: Compatible with acids (AHA/BHA), retinoids, peptides, and other actives without altering their efficacy.
  • Safe for all ages: Well‑tolerated in infants, children, pregnant or nursing women, and the elderly.