Panthenol is a chemical substance made from vitamin B5 that helps hydrate and soothe the skin. People also call it provitamin B5. How It Works Attracts moisture: Panthenol acts as a humectant, meaning it pulls water into the outer layers of the skin. Converts to vitamin B5: When you put it on your body, your skin changes it into pantothenic acid. Supports healing: It helps repair the skin barrier and calm irritation.