Quick answer

Key benefits: Hydration, Soothing.

Pantothenic Acid

Vitamin B5 (panthenol)

Updated

Propanoic acid, 3-(2,4-dihydroxy-3,3-dimethyl-1-oxobutyl)amino-, (R)-

Purpose

Also called vitamin B5, and often touted for a variety of benefits to skin.

Rating

BEST

Category

Humectant, Solvent

INCI Purpose

ANTISTATIC, HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING

Benefits

Hydration — Attracts and locks in moisture to keep skin plump and dewy
Soothing — Calms redness, irritation, and inflammation for sensitive skin

Alternative Names

At a Glance

Article

Also called vitamin B5, research shows it can be effective for hydration. Pantothenic acid occurs naturally in many foods (fresh meats, vegetables, and whole grains), and helps the body convert carbohydrates into glucose that we need for energy. Oral supplementation with pantothenic acid appears to help improve breakouts, but the research on this is not substantial.

See: Panthenol, Vitamin B5

References