Panthenol
Panthenol suppliers and sourcing guide
Panthenol is the alcohol analog of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). It is made synthetically by reacting pantolactone with 3-aminopropanol. D-panthenol (dexpanthenol), made from D-pantolactone, is a clear, very viscous liquid, often sold diluted to 75% in water for easier handling. DL-panthenol, the racemic form, is a white crystalline powder. Both dissolve readily in water and are used in hair and skin care.
- Category
- Cosmetic actives
- Also known as
- D-panthenol · dexpanthenol · DL-panthenol · pantothenyl alcohol · provitamin B5
- Facts checked
- November 2026
Forms and grades of panthenol
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
D-panthenol (dexpanthenol)
The pure dextrorotatory form as a viscous liquid, often made to USP or Ph. Eur. grade.
D-panthenol 75% solution
Dexpanthenol diluted with water to about 75%, which pours and pumps more easily than the neat liquid.
DL-panthenol powder
Racemic panthenol as a free-flowing powder, lower cost and easy to weigh; the INCI name is panthenol for both forms.
What to check on the COA
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
- Assay
- Panthenol content by titration or GC/HPLC per the pharmacopeial or supplier method, with the basis stated for 75% solutions.
- Specific rotation
- Optical rotation, which confirms D- versus DL-panthenol.
- Water content (Karl Fischer)
- Water content, which is critical for diluted grades and for the hygroscopic neat material.
- 3-Aminopropanol
- Residual 3-aminopropanol, a starting material with a pharmacopeial limit.
- Heavy metals and residue on ignition
- Metals and inorganic residue against the monograph or supplier limit.
Storage, lots and expiry
Storage and shelf life
Keep panthenol tightly closed in a cool, dry place; it is hygroscopic and D-panthenol thickens further when cold, so it may need gentle warming before pumping. Avoid prolonged high heat, which can cause racemization and breakdown. Shelf life is set by the supplier specification.
Lots and expiry dates
Record the form (D, DL or 75% solution) and the assay basis for each lot, since use levels must be recalculated when switching between them. Check that the COA rotation matches the form ordered.
Regulatory status
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists DL-panthenol (common names DL-panthenol and panthenol) as an approved ingredient for topical use only, up to 6%, citing CIR.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)FDA's Substances Added to Food inventory lists D-pantothenyl alcohol (dexpanthenol) with the technical effect "nutrient supplement".
Source: hfpappexternal.fda.gov (opens in a new tab)
This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.
Panthenol suppliers
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
We are checking panthenol suppliers now
Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.
Sell panthenol? Request a listingFrequently asked questions
What forms of panthenol can brands buy?
Common forms include d-panthenol (dexpanthenol), d-panthenol 75% solution and dL-panthenol powder. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
What should the COA for panthenol include?
Expect assay, specific rotation, water content (Karl Fischer), 3-Aminopropanol and heavy metals and residue on ignition, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
How should panthenol be stored?
Keep panthenol tightly closed in a cool, dry place; it is hygroscopic and D-panthenol thickens further when cold, so it may need gentle warming before pumping. Avoid prolonged high heat, which can cause racemization and breakdown. Shelf life is set by the supplier specification.
What is the regulatory status of panthenol?
Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists DL-panthenol (common names DL-panthenol and panthenol) as an approved ingredient for topical use only, up to 6%, citing CIR. FDA's Substances Added to Food inventory lists D-pantothenyl alcohol (dexpanthenol) with the technical effect "nutrient supplement".
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