What the science says about Panthenol

Few or mixed studies. This claim isn't established.

• The evidence points to panthenol helping the skin barrier
• It lowered water loss through the skin, which suggests a stronger protective layer
• The benefit was clearer at panthenol 1.0% and 5.0%

10 studies

1. 1.

   Efficacy of a Topical Formulation on Skin Hydration and Barrier Function in Individuals With Xerosis: A 28-Day Randomized, Split-Leg, Untreated-Controlled Trial.

   Journal of cosmetic dermatology·2026RCT35 participantsPositive

   In a 28-day trial of 35 people with dry skin, a cream with panthenol used together with other ingredients improved skin hydration and lowered water loss through the skin.

   PubMed 42108609DOI

2. 2.

   Skin barrier repairing and anti-aging effects evaluation of a comprehensive topical regimen incorporating niacinamide, Pro-Xylane, and panthenol after PicoWay laser: a randomized controlled study.

   Lasers in medical science·2026RCT88 participantsPositive

   In a 112-day trial of 88 women after laser treatment, a regimen with panthenol and other ingredients improved water loss through the skin and skin hydration more than standard care.

   PubMed 42686896DOI

3. 3.

   A Split-Face Randomized Study on the Efficacy of a Platinum-Liposome-Based Facial Mask Containing Soothing Ingredients for Post-Photorejuvenation Skin Recovery.

   Journal of cosmetic dermatology·2025RCT30 participantsPositive

   In a 14-day trial of 30 people after photorejuvenation, a mask with panthenol and other soothing ingredients improved skin hydration and lowered water loss through the skin.

   PubMed 40957858DOI

4. 4.

   Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of a Panthenol-Enriched Mask for Skin Barrier Recovery After Facial Laser Treatment: Results of a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study.

   Journal of cosmetic dermatology·2025RCT60 participantsPositive

   In a 14-day trial of 60 people after facial laser treatment, a panthenol mask used with other ingredients lowered water loss through the skin and raised skin moisture.

   PubMed 40613435DOI

5. 5.

   Scalp application of antioxidants improves scalp condition and reduces hair shedding in a 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

   International journal of cosmetic science·2021RCTPositive

   In a 24-week clinical trial in men and women with hair thinning, a shampoo and leave-on mix with panthenol and other ingredients lowered water loss through the scalp more than a placebo shampoo.

   PubMed 34424558DOI

6. 6.

   A new topical panthenol-containing emollient: Results from two randomized controlled studies assessing its skin moisturization and barrier restoration potential, and the effect on skin microflora.

   The Journal of dermatological treatment·2017RCT23 participantsPositive

   In a 3-week clinical trial of 23 healthy people, a panthenol-containing moisturizer improved skin barrier repair and helped skin hold more water than control.

   PubMed 27425824DOI

7. 7.

   Facilitating facial retinization through barrier improvement.

   Cutis·2006RCTPositive

   In women with facial sun damage using tretinoin, a vitamin-containing moisturizer with panthenol helped the skin barrier and reduced early irritation better than a similar moisturizer without vitamins.

   PubMed 17121065

8. 8.

   A novel treatment of diaper dermatitis in children and adults.

   Journal of cosmetic dermatology·2021Clinical trial20 participantsPositive

   In a 30-day trial of 20 people with diaper rash, a cream with panthenol used together with other ingredients improved skin irritation.

   PubMed 33934478DOI