Humectant

Pantolactone

Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026

Also known as: pantoyl lactone

Synthetic humectant that helps maintain skin’s moisture | Required to make the B vitamins panthenol and pantothenic acid

Addresses

Dehydration

What Is Pantolactone?

Pantolactone is a synthetic humectant that plays a role in maintaining skin’s moisture balance. This compound is also known as pantoyl lactone, and it is required for the creation of skin-beneficial B vitamins panthenol and pantothenic acid.

It is typically included as part of a blend with other cosmetic hydrating ingredients such as panthenol, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and/or various strains of yeast. These ingredients work together to keep skin hydrated and help it resist water loss.

Pantolactone is considered safe as used in cosmetics, where amounts tend to be 1% or less.

Benefits for Your Skin

Clinical Evidence & References

Published Research

  • Chirality, January 2022, pages 114–124 []
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, November 2020, pages 1–12 []
  • The Medical-Surgical Journal, September 2015, pages 938–943 []

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