Vitamin B5
Vitamin B5
Hydrating vitamin — the active that helps soothe, hydrate and preserve the comfort of the skin
Common name: Vitamin B5, pantothenic acid
INCI name: Panthenol
Where it comes from
Vitamin B5 is a vitamin naturally present in various foods and plays an important role in how the body works.
In cosmetics, the form mainly used is panthenol, a provitamin B5 that the skin can convert into vitamin B5. It is generally obtained through synthesis in order to get a stable, pure and consistent raw material.
How does it work on the skin?
The skin has a natural protective barrier that acts somewhat like a wall: it helps keep water inside and protects the skin against external aggressors.
When this barrier is weakened, the skin can lose its water more easily. It can then become dry, rough, uncomfortable or tight.
Panthenol helps attract and retain water in the surface layers of the skin. It can be pictured as a small sponge that helps the skin keep some of the water it needs.
This hydration helps keep the skin more supple and softer. Sufficiently hydrated skin is also less likely to feel tight from dryness.
Vitamin B5 also has a soothing action. It helps improve the comfort of skin that can be put to the test by cold, heat, wind, repeated cleansing or other everyday aggressors.
Lastly, it helps maintain a healthy skin barrier. By helping the skin keep its hydration and comfort, it contributes to skin that gradually looks softer, more supple and better balanced.
Which skin types?
Vitamin B5 is particularly suited to:
- Dry skin : helps retain water and improve the feeling of comfort where there is dryness.
- Dehydrated skin : helps maintain hydration and preserve more supple skin.
- Sensitive skin : its soothing action helps reduce the feeling of discomfort and preserve the softness of the skin.
- Weakened skin : supports the protective barrier when the skin has been exposed to various aggressors.
- Rough skin : helps improve the softness and the feel of the skin's surface.
- Uncomfortable skin : brings a soothing sensation and helps maintain skin comfort.
- Dull skin : good hydration allows the skin to keep a fresher, more supple appearance.
- Normal skin : can be used regularly to maintain good hydration and preserve the skin's comfort.
It can be used in care products for the face, body and hair, depending on the formulation, notably in hydrating and soothing products and those designed for weakened skin.
At CHEM BIODERM
We value vitamin B5 for its gentle, versatile approach centred on the comfort of the skin.
At CHEM BIODERM, it fits naturally into formulas that aim to keep the skin hydrated, supple, soft and comfortable, without being limited to a single skin concern.
It is a particularly valuable active to support daily care and help the skin maintain a protective barrier and a level of hydration favourable to its comfort..
Browse our ingredient glossary here.