Panthenol
A humectant that binds water to the hair surface and improves flexibility. Made by synthesis; there is no practical botanical source.
- INCI name
- Panthenol
- Origin
- Synthetic
- Role
- Pro-vitamin B5 humectant
- Best for
- All hair types · Low porosity · Hair that snaps when dry
What it does
Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) is a small, water-loving molecule. On hair it holds water at the surface and gives the fibre a little more give, which shows up as less breakage when dry and a softer feel. It is one of the most widely used conditioning actives for good reason: it works in rinse-off and leave-on products alike and is well tolerated.
It is produced by chemical synthesis. This is one of the clearest cases where a synthetic ingredient earns its place in a natural-first formula: there is no botanical that does the same job at the same purity.
How we use it
Across most formulas as the baseline humectant, especially for low-porosity profiles where oils are kept light.
Helps with
Often paired with
- Argan oilEmollient oil for slip and shine
- Shea butterOcclusive butter that seals moisture in
- Aloe veraLightweight humectant and scalp soother
Sources
- Hair cosmetics: an overview (Gavazzoni Dias, 2015) · International Journal of Trichology
Educational only, not medical advice. Persistent scalp irritation, sudden hair loss or unexplained breakage warrant a visit to a dermatologist. Written by Cosmixxology R&D.