How it works: Pantothenic acid or panthenol is part of the vitamin B family (Vitamin B5). Panthenol is a humectant, a substance that has the ability to retain water and contribute to moisturization. It helps to improve hydration of

the skin reducing water loss and maintaining skin softenss and elasticity. In addition, panthenol has been shown to activate cells important to wound healing helping to decrease the time to complete healing. Pantothenic acid has also been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect on sun induced redness and burning.

Effectiveness: Studies have shown that the use of panthenol has lead to decreased irritation, dryness, scaling, redness and itching of the skin. Other studies show the ability of panthenol to increase the skin's barrier and reduce water loss. Panthenol is used successfully in many hair care products allowing the water content of the hair to increase leading to hair that has more manageability, better shine, less static, and improved softness.

Where to find it: Murad, DCL, Neova, Pro-cyte

Shop for products containing pantothenic acid/panthenol