What is Panthenol? The ultimate softening ingredient for smooth skin & hair

Ready to achieve soft, smooth skin and hair with just one ingredient? Meet panthenol, a magical ingredient that helps bind and hold water to deeply hydrate the skin and hair. We love that panthenol can be found in many different types of products such as lotions, lipsticks, and hair serums. Read on to discover how to incorporate more products infused with panthenol to achieve a head-to-toe glow!

What is Panthenol?

Panthenol is a chemical substance made from pantothenic acid, also known as vitamin B-5, an essential vitamin for a healthy diet, skin, and hair. Panthenol is also referred to as “dexpanthenol” or “butanamide” but these are interchangeable terms for panthenol.

Panthenol is used in cosmetics as a softening, soothing, and anti-irritant agent. Panthenol acts as a humectant, leaving your skin soft, smooth, and more supple. It also pairs well with other humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to obtain optimal skin-loving hydration. Its anti-inflammatory properties find their way into acne products since they activate the proliferation of cells that are important for wound healing and restoring the function of the skin barrier.

Panthenol in Skincare

Since SPF should be applied daily, why not go for a sunscreen with added skincare benefits? The Dr. Barbra Sturm Sun Drops doubles as a serum and provides SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. A few drops of the serum can be mixed with your face cream or applied undiluted. An active complex of Cassia Extract, Vitamin E, and Beta-Glucan protects the skin and promotes the regeneration of damaged cell structures. Panthenol is an active substance in this luxurious formulation, which is also cruelty-free, GMO-free, paraben-free, and fragrance-free. Even the most sensitive skin types can benefit from this multi-tasking serum!

Looking for the perfect moisturizer to pair with the Sun Drops? Try the Dr. Barbra Sturm Face Cream Light for the ultimate skincare concoction. We adore the lightweight formula that quickly absorbs into the skin, providing intense hydration. This formula is ideal for normal to oily complexions and also works great for sensitive skin. We guarantee that your skin will thank you after adding these two to your skincare routine!

Panthenol in Hair Care

Panthenol is often the main ingredient in many hair masks and conditioners. Why? It helps strengthen hair, retain moisture, and improves the texture of damaged hair. Although panthenol does not promote hair growth, it can certainly help add volume and sheen.

Are your blonde locks lackluster or perhaps your gray hues are looking dull? Try R + Co. Sunset Blvd Blonde Shampoo. This shampoo makes blondes extra bright and grays fantastically silver — all without the brassy tones. This shampoo is also beneficial for color-treated, dehydrated, or coarse hair. Containing panthenol, this conditioning ingredient imparts body, shine, and improves hair’s manageability. 

If your curls are lacking shine and moisture, try Oribe Curl Gelèe for Shine & Definition. This silky, hydrating curl jelly tames, shapes and styles, making coils more manageable. Macadamia, neem, and apricot oils moisturize and detangle strands. Glycerin and panthenol hydrate and condition to protect against breakage. Plus, it’s silicone-free!

The benefits of panthenol are endless! From improving moisture retention to anti-inflammatory properties, panthenol is a powerful ingredient that you’ll want to add to your routine. Now that you know the benefits of panthenol, we encourage you to shop our favorites!