D-Panthenol Liquid 100% (Provitamin B5) — Cosmetic Grade Hydrating & Repairing Active
D-Panthenol is the biologically active D-isomer of panthenol and the direct precursor to pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5). Once absorbed into skin or hair, it is oxidized to pantothenic acid and integrated into coenzyme A — a critical cofactor in fatty acid synthesis and cellular repair. This product is 100% pure D-Panthenol — a thick, clear, viscous liquid at room temperature, with no added water or carrier.
Clinically validated across decades of cosmetic and dermatological research, D-Panthenol is a cornerstone active in professional skincare and haircare formulations worldwide. It is gentle enough for sensitive and compromised skin, effective at low concentrations, and compatible with virtually every formulation system.
D-Panthenol vs. DL-Panthenol — Why It Matters
There are two forms of panthenol on the market and the difference is significant:
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D-Panthenol (this product) — CAS 81-13-0 — the pure D-isomer; the only form biologically active in human skin and hair. A thick, viscous liquid at 100% concentration. Converts directly to D-pantothenic acid in the body. Premium cosmetic grade.
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DL-Panthenol — CAS 16485-10-2 — a racemic 50/50 mixture of D and L isomers. The L-isomer has no known biological activity in skin. Sold as a 100% pure crystalline powder — solid at room temperature. Cost-effective and widely used. Available as our DL-Panthenol Powder.
Bottom line: 1g of this 100% D-Panthenol delivers twice the active D-isomer of 1g of DL-Panthenol powder. For formulators who prioritize maximum efficacy per gram, pure D-Panthenol liquid is the superior choice.
Key Benefits
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Deep, lasting hydration — humectant that attracts and binds water in the stratum corneum; measurably improves skin moisture content at concentrations as low as 1%
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Barrier repair & wound healing — stimulates keratinocyte proliferation and fibroblast activity; accelerates re-epithelialization and barrier recovery in compromised, dry, or post-procedure skin
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Anti-inflammatory & soothing — reduces erythema, irritation, and TEWL; well-documented for sensitive, reactive, and eczema-prone skin
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Hair conditioning & strengthening — penetrates the hair cortex, improves elasticity and tensile strength, reduces brittleness and breakage, adds shine and manageability
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100% pure — no dilution, no water — maximum active concentration; dose exactly what your formula needs with no hidden water content affecting your water phase calculations
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Ready-to-use liquid — no dissolution required; add directly to water phase or cool-down
How to Use
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Incorporation: Add directly to the water phase or at cool-down (below 40°C). No pre-dissolution required. Being 100% pure and viscous, measure by weight for accuracy
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Recommended Usage Rate: 0.5–5% in finished formulations (1–3% most common; up to 5% in intensive repair or haircare products)
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Solubility: Water-soluble; miscible in water and alcohol-based systems. Being 100% pure, warm water phase (40–60°C) aids mixing
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pH Compatibility: Stable across pH 4.0–8.0
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Processing temperature: Do not exceed 70°C
Formulation Details
| INCI Name |
Panthenol |
| CAS Number |
81-13-0 |
| Isomer |
D-Panthenol (pure D-isomer; biologically active form) |
| Concentration |
100% — no water, no carrier |
| Appearance |
Clear, thick, viscous liquid |
| Solubility |
Water-soluble; miscible in water and alcohol |
| Recommended Usage Rate |
0.5–5% |
| pH Compatibility |
4.0–8.0 |
| Incorporation Phase |
Water phase or cool-down (below 40°C); do not exceed 70°C |
| Shelf Life |
24 months, properly stored |
| Storage |
Store at 10–25°C (50–77°F), away from direct light and humidity, in a sealed container |
| Grade |
Cosmetic Grade — External Use Only |
Suggested Formulas & Pairings
D-Panthenol Liquid works synergistically with:
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Hyaluronic Acid — combine with Hyaluronic Acid Powder LMW in the water phase for a multi-mechanism hydration system; HA draws water to the surface while D-Panthenol repairs and seals the barrier
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Niacinamide — pair with Niacinamide Vitamin B3 Powder for a barrier-strengthening, anti-inflammatory serum base; both are water-soluble and fully compatible
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Hydrolyzed Keratin — combine with Hydrolyzed Keratin Protein Powder in haircare for a dual protein-vitamin conditioning system targeting structural repair and moisture retention
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Hydrolyzed Oat Protein — layer with Hydrolyzed Oat Protein Powder for enhanced soothing and film-forming performance in sensitive skin or scalp formulations
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DL-Panthenol Powder — also available as DL-Panthenol Powder for powder-based formulations
Example formula: A 3% D-Panthenol + 2% Niacinamide + 1% Hyaluronic Acid LMW hydrating serum in a water/glycerin base, preserved with 0.8% Euxyl PE 9010, pH adjusted to 5.5. Add D-Panthenol and Niacinamide to warm water phase (50°C); add HA and preservative at cool-down.
Formulation Guide
Explore the full science of panthenol — how it works in skin and hair, clinical evidence for barrier repair and hydration, D vs. DL isomer comparison, and formulation strategies for serums, creams, and haircare.
→ Panthenol for Skin, Hair, and Nails: The Unsung Hero Your Routine Needs
All products sold are cosmetic grade. For external use only. Intended for cosmetic and personal care formulations.