Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, has long carved out a niche for itself in the skincare industry. Unlike a lot of so-called “skincare heroes”, vitamin B5 actually deserves its hard-won reputation. From inflammation to skin ageing, it has a wide range of skin benefits. In this post we explore the benefits of vitamin B5 and how to add it to your skincare routine.
What is Vitamin B5?
Vitamin B5, also known as panthenol or pantothenic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin. It is an essential nutrient that is vital for good health. It is found naturally in both plant and animal food sources. Vitamin B5 plays a key role in making coenzyme A and in metabolising proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Because of these actions, it is important for healthy skin, hair and eyes. Within the skin, it functions as a moisturiser, healer, protector and rejuvenator. It also aids in the formation of healthy fats in skin cells and hair, which contributes to their resilience and strength. In short, vitamin B5 serves as a building block for healthy skin, offering a blend of nourishing, protective and restorative qualities.
How Does Vitamin B5 Work?
Vitamin B5 works by playing a key role in vital biochemical processes in the body. It is fundamental not just for energy production but also for maintaining overall health and vitality. Below are the two main ways it works:
- Synthesis of coenzyme A: This is vital in many biochemical reactions, particularly the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids. Coenzyme A is a central player in the Krebs cycle, a crucial metabolic pathway that generates energy. This cycle also provides building blocks for the body’s growth and maintenance.
- Metabolism of macronutrients: Vitamin B5 is crucial for metabolising the three major macronutrients (proteins, fats and carbohydrates). In protein metabolism it aids the synthesis and breakdown of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. For fats, it is involved in making fatty acids and cholesterol, which are essential for healthy cell membranes and for producing hormones. For carbohydrates, it helps convert them into glucose, the body’s primary energy source.
These functions are what make vitamin B5 an essential nutrient. It supports energy production, cellular processes and the effective use of food for growth and repair.
What are the Benefits of Vitamin B5 for Skin?
The benefits of vitamin B5 for the skin are extensive and backed by decades of scientific research. This is what it can do for your skin:
- Hydration and Moisturising: Vitamin B5 acts as a natural humectant, meaning it attracts and retains moisture in the skin. This helps keep your skin hydrated, plump and supple. In turn, it reduces the appearance of dry skin and fine lines and wrinkles.
- Soothing and Healing: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, vitamin B5 helps calm irritated and inflamed skin. It is also useful for healing minor wounds, cuts and irritations, which makes it a go-to ingredient for products aimed at repairing damage and soothing sensitive conditions like eczema and acne.
- Skin Barrier Enhancement: Vitamin B5 plays a crucial role in repairing and strengthening the skin barrier. A strong barrier is essential for protecting skin against environmental aggressors, pollutants and allergens, as well as preventing moisture loss.
- Anti-Ageing Properties: By improving hydration and barrier function, vitamin B5 can also help reduce the signs of ageing. It helps maintain skin elasticity and softness, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
- Improving Skin Texture: Regular use of vitamin B5 can improve the texture and overall appearance of the skin, making it look smoother and more radiant.
As you can see, vitamin B5 is a versatile ingredient that helps with a wide range of concerns from hydration to ageing. Its ability to nurture, protect and repair the skin is what makes it a valuable addition to any routine.
Which Skincare Products Contain Vitamin B5?
Vitamin B5 is a skincare superstar thanks to its hydrating, soothing and repairing benefits. The market is full of products that contain it, from cleansers to face masks and everything in between. However, not all of them deliver the maximum benefits. As a starting point, we recommend products that stay on the skin rather than those that wash off or wipe away. Here are the best types of products to look for:
- Serums: Vitamin B5 serums are highly concentrated and designed to deliver deep hydration. Hyaluronic acid pairs well with vitamin B5 to enhance moisture. Use these after cleansing and toning when you want to quickly boost hydration.
- Moisturisers: A moisturiser infused with vitamin B5 provides long-lasting hydration and helps strengthen the skin barrier. These are particularly good for dry and sensitive skin because they also soothe and protect.
- Face Masks: Hydrating masks containing vitamin B5 are excellent for a weekly boost, especially in colder weather or dry climates. They soothe and rehydrate irritated or parched skin and can quickly soften a dull or dry complexion.
- Sunscreen and After-Sun Products: Some sunscreens contain vitamin B5 for its skin-soothing properties. It counteracts the drying effects of sun exposure, reduces redness and supports skin repair.
- Specialist Treatments: Balms, ointments and dressings formulated with vitamin B5 are designed to help treat conditions like eczema, acne or minor wounds, leveraging its healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
How Do You Use Vitamin B5 in Your Skincare Routine?
Adding vitamin B5 to your skincare routine can lead to noticeable improvements in hydration, texture and skin health. Here are our top tips for using it:
- Product Selection: When choosing vitamin B5 products, take into account your skin type and specific needs. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, opt for a lightweight serum, and for dry skin go for a rich moisturiser or balm. There is little point in a cleanser with vitamin B5, but a facial mist or essence can work well for oily skin.
- Skin Type: Vitamin B5 is beneficial for all skin types, and especially for those with dry or sensitive skin. Always patch test new products, particularly if your skin is sensitive.
- Layering Vitamin B5: As it is water-based, layer vitamin B5 serums after cleansing and before thicker or oil-based products. Follow with a moisturiser and sunscreen.
- Pairing Vitamin B5: This gentle ingredient plays well with others. Use it with hyaluronic acid for extra hydration, and niacinamide (vitamin B3) alongside vitamin B5 helps improve texture and barrier function.
- Avoid Mixing With: Pairing vitamin C with vitamin B5 is great for brightening, but the two are best applied separately. Avoid products with alcohol or astringents too, as they counteract the hydrating action, and the same goes for high-concentration AHAs or BHAs, which can cause irritation.
- Boost Your Evening Routine: Use richer vitamin B5 creams or overnight masks at night. Applying a vitamin B5 moisturiser or balm after retinoids like tretinoin or Retinal can soothe the skin and reduce purging.
- Spot Treatments: Use treatments containing vitamin B5 for concerns like acne or conditions like eczema.
Vitamin B5 is a powerhouse ingredient that offers a multitude of skin benefits, ranging from hydration and healing to barrier repair. It is even more appealing because it works well on almost all skin types, tones and concerns. Altogether, these benefits make vitamin B5 a versatile and invaluable addition to any skincare routine. That said, skincare is highly personal and there is no such thing as a miracle ingredient or an overnight result. To get the most from vitamin B5 you will need to be consistent and patient. If you have any severe skin concerns or conditions, always consult a dermatologist before adding something new to your routine.
At City Skin Clinic, we are passionate about personalised skincare. Our online skin clinic offers safe and effective custom skincare treatments. Where appropriate our doctors use ingredients such as tretinoin and hydroquinone to treat skin conditions like acne, hyperpigmentation, melasma and skin ageing. To start your personalised skincare plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin starts here.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical provider for any medical concerns or questions you might have.
