Can Pantothenic Acid Help Fight Acne?

When you think about anti-acne skin-care, tried and true ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide probably come to mind. But you should also be aware of one rising star in the world of acne-fighting ingredients. Pantothenic acid, also known as vitamin B5, has garnered buzz for its hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties and can be found in the formulas of countless skin-care products. While it might not be dermatologists' first line of defense against breakouts and blemishes (yet!), some studies suggest that pantothenic acid could reduce acne in addition to other skin benefits. Here's what you need to know about pantothenic acid for acne or otherwise.

What is pantothenic acid?

Pantothenic acid is a water-soluble member of the vitamin B family, meaning that it dissolves in water, and if you consume an excess of what your body needs, it will just get removed through your urine. Pantothenic acid occurs naturally in your cells and tissues, says Beverly Hills-based board-certified dermatologist Tess Mauricio, M.D. Specifically, it's present in coenzyme A, a compound that plays a role in regulating the skin barrier, according to New York-based board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Y. Claire Chang, M.D. In other words, pantothenic acid can aid the skin barrier in its role of keeping moisture in and harmful elements such as pathogens out. Note: In topical skin-care products, you'll see "panthenol" rather than "pantothenic acid" listed in the ingredients. Also a form a vitamin B5, panthenol is a substance that your body converts to pantothenic acid, explains Dr. Mauricio.

What are the benefits of pantothenic acid?

Internally, pantothenic acid plays a role in breaking down fats in the body, so researchers have studied the potential of pantothenic acid supplements to reduce cholesterol levels in people with hyperlipidemia (aka high cholesterol), according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Pantothenic acid supplements might also be useful for other reasons, including preventing arthritis or allergies, but more research is needed to prove a link to these benefits, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Studies suggest that pantothenic acid's role in topical beauty products may be linked to its anti-inflammatory properties and that it can also boost the skin's softness, thanks to moisturizing properties. Plus, it's often incorporated in hair and nail products to prevent dry and/or frizzy strands and dry, peeling nails, thanks to its moisturizing benefits.

Pantothenic acid has also emerged as a potential acne fighter. A small clinical study in 2014 showed that taking oral supplements containing pantothenic acid (along with other ingredients) reduced the participants' number of blemishes after 12 weeks of taking the supplements twice a day. "Though the exact mechanism is unclear, [pantothenic acid's anti-acne benefits] may be due to its anti-inflammatory and skin softening properties," says Dr. Chang. Inflammation causes skin's oil glands to become more active, allowing acne-causing skin bacteria and yeast to thrive. (

Even if you're not prone to acne, you might benefit from incorporating products with pantothenic acid for other reasons. For example, research suggests that not only is pantothenic acid moisturizing, but it can also help maintain skin's elasticity, says Dr. Chang. And so you'll often find see panthenol in products targeted to treat eczema, irritation, or itchiness.

Is Pantothenic Acid Helpful for Treating Acne?

At this point, experts are split as to whether pantothenic acid is worth trying for acne prevention. Dr. Chang says that she doesn't opt for pantothenic acid as her go-to method for treating acne because more extensive research on both oral and topical applications is needed to confirm its potential benefits.

"Salicylic acid is better established for its anti-acne benefits, but you should only use salicylic acid topically, whereas pantothenic acid can be used both topically and orally," adds Dr. Mauricio, who says she's a big believer in supplements for general health and skin care and would consider pantothenic acid for her patients.

"Oral administration of pantothenic acid allows for the systemic absorption of this important water-soluble vitamin, so the improvement can be seen not just in your skin — or areas you topically apply pantothenic acid directly — but also potentially improve your hair and eyes where pantothenic acid has been shown to exhibit benefits," she adds.