Panthenol (D-Panthenol) — Cosmetic Grade

INCI Information

INCI Name

Panthenol

Common Name

Pro-Vitamin B5 / Dexpanthenol

CAS Number

81-13-0

🔬 Why D-Panthenol? Understanding the Isomer Matters

⚠️ Key Takeaway: Not All Panthenol Is Created Equal

Panthenol exists in two mirror-image forms: D-Panthenol and L-Panthenol. Only the D-isomer (Dexpanthenol) can be recognized and converted into Vitamin B5 by human skin cells. The L-form is biologically inactive. Many suppliers sell DL-Panthenol (a 50/50 mix) at a lower price — but you get only half the efficacy.

Isomer Comparison

Type	INCI / Chemical Name	Skin Bioactivity	Relative Price
D-Panthenol	Dexpanthenol / (R)-Panthenol	✅✅✅ 100% active — converts to Vitamin B5 in skin	$$$ Highest
DL-Panthenol	Racemic mixture (D + L, 50/50)	⚠️ ~50% active — half the repair effect	$$ Medium
L-Panthenol	(S)-Panthenol	❌ Biologically inactive	$ Lowest

How D-Panthenol Works in Skincare

When applied topically, D-Panthenol penetrates the stratum corneum and is rapidly converted into pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) by skin enzymes. Vitamin B5 then:

Stimulates epithelial cell proliferation — accelerating wound healing and skin barrier repair
Promotes lipid synthesis — increasing ceramide and fatty acid production to strengthen the moisture barrier
Reduces inflammation — soothing irritated, compromised, or post-procedure skin
Acts as a humectant — binding water in the stratum corneum for long-lasting hydration

What to Check on the COA

When sourcing D-Panthenol, always request a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and verify these key parameters:

Assay (D-Panthenol content): ≥99.0%
Specific Rotation [α]D²⁾: +29.0° ~ +31.5° — this confirms it is the D-isomer, not DL or L
Water Content: ≤1.0% (for powder) or as specified (for 75% solution)
Heavy Metals (Pb): ≤10 ppm
Grade: Cosmetic / USP / EP

💰 Indicative Price Range (Bulk)

🛑 Verified Supplier Comparison

D-Panthenol (cosmetic grade) suppliers from Alibaba.com. All links direct to product pages with CPS tracking.

Supplier	Purity / Grade	MOQ	Price Range	Rating	Status	Years	Action
Healthife LLC	D-Panthenol 99% USP, Cosmetic Grade	1kg	$80 – $120	⭐ 4.8	Verified	5 yrs	View on Alibaba →
Xi'an Healthway Biotech	D-Panthenol 99% EP, Dexpanthenol	1kg	$90 – $140	⭐ 4.7	Verified	8 yrs	View on Alibaba →
Guangzhou Tiantian Fine Chemical	D-Panthenol 99% Cosmetic Grade, 75% Solution	5kg	$25 – $45	⭐ 4.6	Verified	6 yrs	View on Alibaba →
Shandong Aojin Chemical	D-Panthenol 99.5% USP/EP, Powder	1kg	$100 – $150	⭐ 4.5	Verified	4 yrs	View on Alibaba →
Jiangsu Keyuan Chemical	D-Panthenol 99% Cosmetic Grade	2kg	$85 – $130	⭐ 4.7	Verified	7 yrs	View on Alibaba →
Zhejiang Huakang Pharmaceutical	D-Panthenol 99% USP, Dexpanthenol	1kg	$95 – $145	⭐ 4.6	Verified	5 yrs	View on Alibaba →
Henan Sinotech Chemical	D-Panthenol 99% Cosmetic Grade, 75% Liquid	5kg	$28 – $55	⭐ 4.5	Verified	3 yrs	View on Alibaba →

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🛒 Purchasing Guide & Tips

Specify D-Panthenol (Dexpanthenol), not DL-type — DL-Panthenol has only ~50% biological activity. Always confirm the isomer type with your supplier.
Request COA with Specific Rotation data — A value of +29°~+31.5° confirms the D-isomer identity. Without this, you cannot verify what you are buying.
Choose the right form for your formulation — 75% aqueous solution is easier to handle and incorporate into water-based formulas; pure powder offers maximum flexibility.
Verify the supplier is "Verified" or "Gold Supplier" on Alibaba, and check their transaction history and third-party audit reports.
Compare at least 3–5 suppliers before making a decision. Pay attention to both price per kg and shipping terms.
Check third-party lab test results when available, especially for heavy metals and microbiological purity.
Consider storage and shelf life — D-Panthenol is hygroscopic. Store in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed containers. Typical shelf life: 2–3 years.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Is Panthenol the same as Vitamin B5?

Panthenol is the alcohol form (pro-vitamin) of Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid). When applied to skin, enzymes convert Panthenol into active Vitamin B5, which then participates in cellular repair and moisture barrier function.

❓ Why does the D-isomer matter? Can't I just use DL-Panthenol?

Skin cells only recognize and process the D-isomer. DL-Panthenol is a 50/50 mix of D and L forms — meaning half the molecules are biologically inactive. For high-performance skincare, D-Panthenol is the professional choice. DL-type is sometimes used in lower-cost industrial or animal feed applications.

❓ Should I buy the powder or the 75% solution?

It depends on your formulation. The 75% aqueous solution is ready to use in most water-based skincare products and is more cost-effective. The pure powder (99%+) offers maximum formulation flexibility and longer shelf life but requires careful handling to avoid moisture absorption.

❓ Can Panthenol cause breakouts?

No. Panthenol is non-comedogenic and well-tolerated by all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin. In fact, it is often used in post-procedure and restorative formulations specifically because of its gentle, anti-inflammatory properties.

❓ What concentration should I use in formulations?

Typical use is 1%–5% in skincare formulations. At 0.5%–1% you get basic humectant and soothing benefits. At 2%–5% you achieve more pronounced barrier repair and wound-healing effects. Always test at your target concentration.

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