Panthenol is a viscous and clear liquid that is soluble in water. It is used in cosmetics because of its ability to moisturize, as well as its natural humectants and emulsifying attributes. Panthenol is often used in shampoos and conditioners because it can coat the hair and seal the surface of the hair to protect it from outside influences. It makes the strands appear shiny and healthy after it binds to the hair shaft.

It is also used in many other cosmetics like skin cream and moisturizers, and is often recommended as a moisturizer for skin that was recently tattooed. It has excellent skin penetration and is used for the treatment of mild burns because it can hydrate whilst also reducing itching and inflammation.

Panthenol is a derivative of vitamin B5, so it sometimes referred to as pro-vitamin B, and is considered safe for use on the outside of the body, as well as the inside in very small amounts. Ingestion of this ingredient will cause no harm internal when the amount ingested is small. Also, in a 50-year study of the topical uses of Panthenol it was shown to have no negative side-effects, either for short term or long term use.

Panthenol is great for hair because of its moisturizing capability. It actually penetrates the hair shaft to improve the overall condition of the hair and its structure. Panthenol does not “nourish” hair. It coats it to make it slippery. This makes Panthenol essential as an ingredient in a Hair Detox Shampoo. Allowing other ingredients to get into the hair shaft, and lock in place.