Functions

• Moisturizing

  Panthenol-based formulations increased skin moisture and had a significant effect on skin barrier function by decreasing TEWL values, and thus it may be used in cosmetic products to maintain physiological skin conditions and to prevent dry skin alterations.

• Repair

  Topical dexpanthenol acts like a moisturizer, improving stratum corneum hydration, reducing transepidermal water loss and maintaining skin softness and elasticity. Activation of fibroblast proliferation, which is of relevance in wound healing, has been observed both in vitro and in vivo with dexpanthenol. Accelerated re-epithelization in wound healing, monitored by means of the transepidermal water loss as an indicator of the intact epidermal barrier function, has also been seen.

• Soothing

  The stimulation of epithelization, granulation and mitigation of itching were the most prominent effects of formulations containing dexpanthenol. Adjuvant skin care with dexpanthenol considerably improved the symptoms of skin irritation, such as dryness of the skin, roughness, scaling, pruritus, erythema, erosion/fissures, over 3 to 4 weeks. Usually, the topical administration of dexpanthenol preparations is well tolerated, with minimal risk of skin irritancy or sensitization.

• Hair care

  Dexpanthenol is a widely used humectant in hair care products. Dexpanthenol acts a humectant in hair by attracting moisture to the follicle to prevent hair from becoming dry and/or fragile. It has been observed that a low level of use will give hair shine and gloss.