Panthenol is an ingredient used in cosmetics and personal care products for its moisturizing, healing, and protective qualities. It is a provitamin of Vitamin B5, meaning it can be converted into the vitamin by the body when applied topically. It is also known as d-panthenol and DL-panthenol, and can be derived from plants like wheat germ or synthesized in the lab. Panthenol helps to keep skin hydrated, soothes skin irritation, reduces inflammation, and repairs damage to the skin barrier. It also works to protect skin against environmental stressors like UV radiation and pollution.