Home / Ingredients / Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)

By Nur → Last verified 9/26/2026

What it is

Panthenol is pro-vitamin B5, which converts to pantothenic acid once absorbed into skin. It's one of the most common supporting ingredients across Korean skincare, appearing in cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and sunscreens alike.

What the evidence says

Panthenol hydrates as a humectant, supports wound healing, and has anti-inflammatory, soothing effects on irritated skin. Concentration can vary meaningfully: Anua's 3-Ceramide Moisture Barrier Cream uses a notably high, disclosed 5% concentration, well above the trace amounts panthenol is sometimes added at just to round out an ingredient list.

Who it's for

Nearly everyone, including reactive and irritated skin, since it's one of the gentler, better-tolerated actives across skincare.

Worth knowing

No specific group needs to avoid panthenol, it's broadly considered one of the safer supporting ingredients in skincare.

Where you'll find it

Products in our catalog that list Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) as a key ingredient.

Frequently asked

What does panthenol do for skin?

It hydrates as a humectant, supports wound healing, and has anti-inflammatory, soothing effects on irritated skin.

Is panthenol the same as vitamin B5?

Panthenol is pro-vitamin B5, meaning it converts to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) once absorbed into skin.

Does panthenol concentration matter?

Yes, some formulas use it at a trace amount just to round out an ingredient list, while others use a disclosed, meaningful concentration, Anua's 3-Ceramide Cream confirms a notably high 5%.

Is panthenol safe for sensitive skin?

Yes, it's broadly considered one of the gentler, better-tolerated ingredients in skincare, commonly used in formulas for reactive and irritated skin.