Description
The biologically active D-isomer of panthenol, the precursor to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). Penetrates the stratum corneum efficiently and converts to pantothenic acid in skin, supporting barrier function, reducing transepidermal water loss, and improving hair fiber tensile strength.
Clear, viscous, hygroscopic liquid (75 percent solution in water or propylene glycol) or white crystalline powder. Highly water-soluble, stable across pH 4 to 8, and compatible with all common cosmetic actives.
We supply cosmetic-grade D-Panthenol from manufacturers in China holding ISO 22716, ISO 9001, Halal, Kosher and pharmaceutical-GMP certifications relevant to the product and production.
Common market grades include D-Panthenol 75% liquid (the dominant cosmetic trade form), D-Panthenol 100% liquid (anhydrous), DL-Panthenol racemate at lower price points, and crystalline D-Panthenol powder for anhydrous applications. Typical finished-product use is 0.5 to 5 percent.
Bulk and reduced-MOQ shipments. Batch-level COA covering HPLC purity, water content, specific rotation, color, heavy metals, and microbiology.
Introduction
Panthenol was identified in the 1930s by Roger Williams as the alcohol precursor to pantothenic acid. Commercial cosmetic use began in the 1950s with Wella's Pantene haircare franchise (now owned by P&G), which established panthenol as the defining haircare conditioning active.
Industrial production is by chemical synthesis from isobutyraldehyde, formaldehyde, and hydrogen cyanide via D-pantolactone, followed by chiral resolution or asymmetric synthesis and amidation with 3-aminopropanol. The D-isomer is the biologically active form and the standard cosmetic grade.
Regulatory status is that of a listed cosmetic ingredient in CosIng, the PCPC INCI dictionary, and China IECIC. No fixed concentration limit. Pharmaceutical pantothenol formulations are regulated separately under wound-care frameworks.
Clinical evidence is substantial. Peer-reviewed double-blind studies show panthenol at 2 to 5 percent reduces transepidermal water loss, improves stratum corneum hydration, and accelerates barrier recovery after irritation challenges. Haircare studies demonstrate measurable improvement in fiber tensile strength and combability.
Strategically, panthenol is one of the most-used skincare and haircare actives globally. Demand is anchored by mass-market brands and continues to grow in dermocosmetic and post-procedure positioning. China is the dominant global producer at commodity-style pricing.
Where it is used
- Barrier-repair creams and lotions for sensitive, compromised skin
- Hair conditioners, masks, and leave-in treatments (signature haircare use)
- Post-procedure recovery products after laser, peels, and micro-needling
- Sun care, after-sun lotions, and tattoo aftercare
- Baby care creams, balms, and shampoos
- Anti-redness serums and rosacea-adjunct cosmetic products
- Lip balms and intensive hydration treatments
- Combination formulations with niacinamide, ceramides, and Centella
- Wound-care cosmetic adjuncts and chapping treatments
Technical data
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear viscous liquid (75% grade) or white crystalline powder |
| INCI Name | Panthenol |
| Assay (HPLC, dry basis) | ≥ 98.0% |
| Specific rotation (20 °C) | +29.0° to +31.5° |
| Water content (Karl Fischer) | Per grade (75% or anhydrous) |
| pH (5% solution) | 7.0 to 9.0 |
| Refractive index (20 °C, liquid grade) | 1.460 to 1.470 |
| Color (APHA, 50% solution) | ≤ 30 |
| DL-Pantolactone | ≤ 1.0% |
| Heavy metals (as Pb) | ≤ 10 mg/kg |
| Arsenic | ≤ 2 mg/kg |
| Total plate count | ≤ 100 CFU/g |
| E. coli, Salmonella, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa | Negative |
| Source | Synthetic, D-pantolactone amidation |
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