It’s your favourite time again! Lunchtime! JK it’s actually time to take a deep dive on a popular skin care ingredient and break down what makes it so good for your skin. Today we’re zoning in on panthenol aka provitamin B5, one of the superstar ingredients in the likes of Very Luxe Repair Shop, Very Glowy Primer and Very Mattifying Primer. But what is panthenol, exactly? What will it do for your cute face?
What is panthenol in skincare?
Panthenol in skincare is a humble ingredient known for its moisturising properties.
Also known as provitamin B5, panthenol is converted into vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) in the skin. It's a popular addition to hydrating products like moisturisers and serums.
Y’see, panthenol acts as both a humectant and an emollient. As a humectant, it helps attract and retain moisture in the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin), while its emollient properties can help soften and smooth the skin. Clever!
The result? A little extra help keeping your skin looking and feeling hydrated and supple. Not bad for one little ingredient.
What's the difference between dry and dehydrated skin?
Dry skin and dehydrated skin might sound like the same thing, but surprise! They're not.
Dry skin is a skin type that tends to produce less oil, while dehydrated skin is a condition where the skin lacks water. And here's the kicker: even oily skin can become dehydrated. Yep, really!
Dry skin may feel rough or flaky, while dehydrated skin might feel tight or look a little dull. Sometimes, the signs overlap, making it tricky to tell the difference.
What are the benefits of panthenol for the skin?
So, what does panthenol do for the skin? From helping keep dryness at bay to looking after your skin barrier, this little ingredient has quite a few tricks up its sleeve.
It hydrates! Really well!
Hydration is important for all skin types. Yes, even oily skin! And panthenol is a handy little ingredient for keeping thirsty skin happy. It helps reduce transepidermal water loss, which may help ease that tight, dry feeling in the skin.
(Psst. To hear more about the magic of humectants, emollients and the other moisture power players (occlusives), you can read up about it riiiight here.)
It supports your skin barrier!
Overdid it on the retinol? Skin a bit ouchy from needling? Sunburnt? Stress got your skin wigging out? You could have damaged your moisture barrier. (Not sure if your skin barrier is damaged? Read here!)
Why does your skin barrier matter so much? Think of it as your skin's first line of defence, helping keep moisture in and external irritants out. When it's compromised, you might notice dryness, flakiness or increased sensitivity, even from products your skin normally gets along with.
When your skin barrier needs a little extra TLC, try taking a break from exfoliants and retinols and reach for a skincare sidekick like panthenol instead. As we mentioned, panthenol helps draw moisture to the surface layer of skin and retain it there. Through this process, this ingredient helps support your skin’s barrier. If your barrier isn’t damaged, it’ll also work to strengthen it.
It soothes and calms!
Panthenol in skincare also has calming properties. It may help soothe skin experiencing mild irritation, redness and itchiness associated with dryness. Whether irritation is a result of environmental factors, certain skincare products or changes in your skin as you age, keeping your skincare routine gentle and uncomplicated can be a good place to start.
And if your skin is feeling extra sensitive? Consider sticking to gentle cleansers, moisturisers and ingredients like panthenol. Giving your skin a break from stronger actives may also help minimise further irritation. No need to throw every product in your bathroom cabinet at the problem!
For skin that's feeling a little worse for wear after too much sun, check out our sunburn survival guide for more skincare tips.
It helps smooth uneven skin texture!
Dry patches and flaky skin? Not at all the dream. panthenol helps keep skin moisturised, which may soften rough areas and leave your complexion plump and dewy.
And here's a bonus for makeup lovers: Dry, flaky patches can make foundation look uneven or cling to certain areas of your face. Keeping your skin hydrated can help create a smoother-looking base for makeup application.
Thirsty skin calling? Pop Very Luxe Repair Mask into your weekly DIY facial for some moisture-loving goodness.
What skin types will benefit from panthenol?
Good news! panthenol is generally well tolerated by most skin types, whether yours is dry, oily, combination or on the sensitive side. It’s particularly useful for those who are prone to redness, itchiness, sensitivity or have a damaged skin barrier. We’d also recommend it for mature skin that is likely to be dry and thirsty, and craving some extra moisture.
Does more panthenol mean better skincare?
Not necessarily! A higher percentage of panthenol for skin doesn't automatically mean a product will work better. The formulation matters just as much.
For example, panthenol might be paired with humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid in a hydrating serum or with richer emollients in a moisturiser designed for dry skin. The product's texture matters too. A lightweight serum might suit someone who prefers minimal layers, while a richer cream may appeal to those dealing with persistent dryness.
Bottom line: Don't get too caught up in the percentages. Think about what your skin needs and how the product fits into your routine.
Are there any skin care ingredients you should avoid?
Nope! Panthenol is a super friendly ingredient that plays well with others. It’ll easily slip into your AM or PM routine and start soothing your skin immediately. Just remember that everyone's skin is different, so introduce new products gradually and watch out for any signs of irritation. Even the friendliest skincare ingredients deserve a little caution!
Ready to give panthenol skincare a go?
Now that you're acquainted with the skin benefits of panthenol, why not make a little room for it in your lineup? Here as Go-To, we're all about thoughtfully formulated products that fit into your everyday routine. Check out the rest of our collection for more skincare must-haces.
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