Dry, lifeless-looking hair? One simple ingredient added to your daily beauty routine could change all that. Discover the benefits of an age-old vitamin here, says editor Trudi Brewer.
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It’s been around for decades, since the 1940s, to be precise. Thanks to a Swiss scientist who discovered the wonders of Panthenol. Also called pantothenol, it’s an alcohol derivative of pantothenic acid, a component of the B vitamins derived, B5 to be exact, derived from plants. Originally it was used for treating burns - you may have even slathered it on your baby's bottom; for its healing power, this vitamin is also brilliant for damaged hair.
How to use it
While its hydrating benefits are second to none, it can also boost hair growth. But first, a quick science lesson. So back to hair and skin, according to dermatologist Brendan Camp, Panthenol works for most hair types. "Panthenol is a desirable hair and skincare ingredient because it acts as a humectant, drawing moisture from the environment where it is needed most." He adds, "Hair that is dehydrated or low in moisture can benefit from moisturizing properties of panthenol. As an emollient, panthenol is also good for rough textured hair because it can smooth out the imperfections in the hair shaft." Luck would have it; this potent vitamin is also suitable for thinning. In a recent study, panthenol helped to mitigate the effects of thinning hair, increasing skin cell viability while supporting and stimulating hair growth.
Haircare loaded with vitamin B5
OLAPLEX No. 5 Conditioner, $60.
For dry, coarse hair, this conditioner is a game changer. First, it protects and repairs damaged hair, split ends, and frizz by fixing the broken hair bonds from colouring and environmental damage, to strengthen each strand.
Redken Thickening Treatment Stemoxydine 5%, $57.
With this treatment, you no longer need to struggle with thin, lifeless hair. Designed to strengthen each strand while preventing breakage, to bolster the thinnest of hair with stemoxydine by stimulating the anagen (growth phase) of the growing cycle. Applied on damp hair concentrating on roots, massage it in and dry and style your hair as usual.
Schwarzkopf Bonacure Hyaluronic Moisture Kick Curl Power, $34.
If your hair is curly, it’s also possibly dry, and this balm-like cream offers multiple benefits. Smoothing, hydrating and frizz-fighting thanks to panthenol, glycerin almond oil and lightweight silicone. Expect your hair to have awesome polish.
Fudge Tri-Blo Blow Dry Spray, $26.
This spray adds an invisible, hydrating shield on each strand to protect your hair against heat-styling torture. Bolstered by Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) and a unique MiruStyle complex. It’s weightless, adds uber-shine to dull hair and keeps your style looking mint for hours.
Umberto Giannini Curl Jelly Wash Shampoo, $13.
This is epic if you have curly hair - which, as I have said, tends to become dry and frizzy. It defines curls and moisturises, thanks to vitamin B5. It’s a clean, vegan formula, which means it’s free from silicones and 100 per cent sulphate free - it’s a win for curl grooming.
KMS TAME FRIZZ SHAMPOO, $54.
Frizz fighting begins in the shower. This shampoo is epic thanks to the formula stacked with panthenol and babassu nut oil (much like coconut). This should be your new go-to shampoo if your hair is coarse and dry and prone to summer flyaways.
Styling foam is hot right now. Find out how it can work for your hair.