Panthenol serum, often referred to as provitamin B5 serum, is a popular skincare product known for its hydrating and soothing properties. Similar and close in functionality to Niacinamide, this serum helps reduce skin redness and irritation. In skincare circles, the two ingredients are often incorporated for maximum results.
People with dry skin should familiarize themselves with panthenol serum for its high moisturizing effect. Research has shown that it reduces trans-epidermal water loss (water being lost from the outermost layer of the skin), resulting in visibly plump and healthy-looking skin. In addition to hydrating the skin, this serum is an effective way to put up a good fight against acne breakouts.
What is Panthenol Serum?
Panthenol is a derivative of vitamin B5. In skincare, it is used for its moisturizing, soothing, and healing properties. Panthenol serum typically contains this ingredient in a concentrated form, designed to penetrate the skin effectively. Therefore, using panthenol serum can benefit your skin in multiple ways, including hydration, soothing, and improving skin barrier function.
A step-by-step guide on how to add panthenol serum to your skincare routine…
- Cleanse: Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Then, pat your skin dry with a clean towel.
- Tone (Optional): Apply a toner, if you use one. This helps balance your skin’s pH and prepares it for better absorption of the serum.
- Apply panthenol serum: Dispense a few drops of panthenol serum onto your fingertips or directly onto your face.
Gently spread the serum over your face and neck using upward and outward motions. Ensure an even application by gently patting the serum into your skin. - Moisturize: Follow this with your regular moisturizer to lock in the serum and provide additional hydration and protection. Choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin type.
- Use sunscreen (morning routine): If you’re applying the serum in the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas.
Bonus tips:
- Before using the serum on your face, perform a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any adverse reactions. This saves a lot of headaches. If the skin is irritated, do not use it.
- For best results, use the serum consistently, usually once or twice daily, depending on your skincare routine and the product instructions. The more consistently you use it, the better the results. Using the serum inconsistently will dwindle the expected results.
- Store the serum in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to maintain its efficacy.
What are the benefits of panthenol serum?
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- Hydration: Panthenol (Provitamin B5) is a humectant, which means that it attracts and retains moisture in the skin, resulting in healthy and glowing skin.
- Soothing: It has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm irritated skin. Skin irritation can be caused by numerous factors, but the first step to treatment is to calm down the effect of the irritant. Whether it’s skin redness or random breakouts, this serum instantly brings relief.
- Improves skin barrier: Panthenol strengthens the skin barrier, improving its resilience and overall health.
Using panthenol serum regularly can lead to improved hydration, smoother texture, and a healthier complexion.
Potential side effects of this serum
While panthenol serum is known for its numerous skin benefits, it also has side effects, including:
- Skin irritation: Some users might experience redness, itching, or a burning sensation on the skin.
- Allergic reaction: Though rare, some individuals could be allergic to panthenol, leading to symptoms like rash, hives, or swelling. If you notice this, discontinue use. Other hydrating skincare ingredients would work perfectly on your skin.
- Contact dermatitis: In some cases, panthenol can cause contact dermatitis, characterized by red, inflamed skin.
If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it’s advisable to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. To minimize the risk of adverse reactions, consider doing a patch test before using a new product on a larger area of your skin.
Featured image: Jacob Wackerhausen/Instagram
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