Pantolactone
Other names: Pantolactone, (3R)-3-hydroxy-4,4-dimethyloxolan-2-one
Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)
Pantolactone, also known as Pantolactone or (3R)-3-hydroxy-4,4-dimethyloxolan-2-one, is used in the cosmetic industry, particularly in skin care. The substance is known not only for its antibacterial activity, but also for its ability to influence and stimulate skin and hair growth. Thanks to these properties, pantolactone is increasingly appearing as an ingredient in creams, lotions and shampoos. It also has vasodilating effects, i.e. the ability to dilate blood vessels and thus improve blood flow, making pantolactone a suitable ingredient in the manufacture of medicinal products designed to increase blood flow in the skin.
In addition to the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, pantolactone is also used in the food industry. It is commonly found in food supplements as a source of panthenol, which is a manifestation of vitamin B5. It plays an important role in the regulation of metabolic processes in the body, is involved in the formation of haemoglobin and is essential for the proper function of the skin, hair and eyes. Thus, pantolactone, by its properties, ensures the functioning of many bodily processes and is an important element in certain preparations. Due to its wide range of uses and beneficial effects on human health, pantolactone is an important substance in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical and food industries.