D-Panthenol CAS 81-13-0

Introduction to D-Panthenol

D-Panthenol (Dexpanthenol) is the biologically active D-enantiomer of panthenol, functioning as the stable alcohol analogue and direct metabolic precursor of Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid). Supplied as a high-purity white crystalline powder or colorless viscous liquid, it penetrates the stratum corneum and is rapidly enzymatically oxidized to pantothenic acid, a vital component of Coenzyme A. Formulators rely on it as a premier active in dermatological skincare, wound-healing ointments, and deep-conditioning haircare for its ability to stimulate fibroblast proliferation, accelerate epidermal regeneration, and provide profound humectancy. Its unique molecular structure ensures exceptional stability across a broad pH range, making it a versatile cornerstone in both leave-on and rinse-off personal care and pharmaceutical formulations.

Key Features of D-Panthenol

• Provitamin B5 bioconversion. The D-enantiomer possesses 100% vitamin activity. Upon skin or mucosal absorption, alcohol dehydrogenases rapidly oxidize it into pantothenic acid, directly feeding the Coenzyme A metabolic pathway for lipid synthesis and cellular repair.
• Transdermal penetration & hydration. The lipophilic hydrocarbon chain combined with hydrophilic hydroxyl groups allows deep penetration into the stratum corneum, where it binds water molecules and significantly reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) without leaving a tacky residue.
• Fibroblast proliferation. Clinically proven to stimulate fibroblast proliferation and accelerate the re-epithelialization of damaged tissue, making it the gold-standard active for post-procedure recovery, sunburn soothing, and minor wound healing.
• Hair shaft substantivity. Readily penetrates the hair cuticle and cortex, acting as an internal humectant that restores elasticity, reduces split ends, and imparts a natural, long-lasting shine to damaged hair fibers.
• Formulation versatility. Highly soluble in water and ethanol, and remarkably stable in the optimal pH 4.0–7.0 window, allowing seamless integration into emulsions, serums, clear gels, and aqueous aerosols.

D-Panthenol Chemical & Physical Properties

Applications of D-Panthenol

Dermatological & barrier-repair skincare: Dosed at 1.0–5.0% in creams, lotions, and serums. Accelerates stratum corneum lipid synthesis, repairs compromised skin barriers, and soothes erythema induced by UV exposure or chemical peels.

Wound healing & infant care: Formulated at 2.0–5.0% in diaper rash creams, post-laser balms, and minor burn ointments. Promotes rapid re-epithelialization and reduces scar formation by modulating fibroblast activity.

Haircare & scalp treatments: Used at 0.5–3.0% in shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in masks. Penetrates the hair shaft to provide internal hydration, improving tensile strength and reducing breakage during mechanical styling.

Ophthalmic & nasal preparations: Added at 1.0–5.0% in artificial tears and nasal sprays. Supports the regeneration of corneal epithelial cells and soothes dry, irritated mucosal membranes.

Storage & Safety Precautions for D-Panthenol

Storage conditions. Store in sealed, light-resistant fibre drums or aluminium bottles at 15–25 °C, in a dry environment. Pure D-Panthenol is highly hygroscopic; exposure to high humidity (>70% RH) will cause the powder to absorb moisture and form a thick, syrupy liquid. This phase change is physical and does not degrade the active ingredient. Keep away from strong oxidising agents.

Safety and PPE. GHS: Not classified as hazardous. Non-toxic, non-irritating, and non-sensitising. Wear standard nitrile gloves and safety glasses during dispensing to prevent stickiness. Spills are non-toxic but extremely tacky; wash with warm water.

Transport classification. Non-DG. Not regulated under IMDG, IATA, or ADR. Ship as standard general cargo. Ensure container seals are intact to prevent moisture ingress during ocean freight.

Practitioner note: For incoming QC, verify the D-enantiomer purity via polarimetry. The specific rotation must read between +29.0° and +31.5°. A reading near zero indicates the presence of the inactive DL-Panthenol racemate. Confirm assay via HPLC against a Dexpanthenol reference standard.

D-Panthenol FAQ

Q: What is the difference between D-Panthenol and DL-Panthenol?

A: Only the D-enantiomer (Dexpanthenol) possesses 100% Vitamin B5 biological activity and can be converted into Coenzyme A in the human body. DL-Panthenol is a 50/50 racemic mixture; while it still offers excellent surface humectancy for cosmetics, it only provides half the biological wound-healing and cellular-regeneration benefits. For pharmaceutical and high-efficacy dermal applications, D-Panthenol is mandatory.

Q: My pure D-Panthenol powder arrived as a thick, sticky liquid. Is it degraded?

A: No. Pure D-Panthenol has a melting point of 64–66 °C but frequently supercools into a highly viscous, colorless liquid at room temperature, especially if it absorbed trace moisture during transit. Gently warm the container in a 40–50 °C water bath to homogenise it before weighing. The biological activity remains fully intact.

Q: What is the optimal pH window for formulating with D-Panthenol?

A: D-Panthenol is most stable in the pH 4.0–7.0 range. In highly acidic (pH < 3) or strongly alkaline (pH > 8) formulations, especially when subjected to prolonged heat, the amide bond can slowly hydrolyse, cleaving the molecule back into pantothenic acid and 3-aminopropanol. For extreme pH systems, consider encapsulating the active or adding it during the cool-down phase.