viewBox="0 0 20 20" fill="none" width="20" height="20" aria-hidden="true"> Vitamin B5

CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE
Calcium salt of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)

CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE is produced synthetically by a reaction of D-pantothenic acid with calcium hydroxide. Learn everything about its origin, effect, and the best application in your daily care routine here.

CAS: 137-08-6  |  Also known as: Pantothenic acid calcium salt, D-pantothenic acid calcium, vitamin B5 calcium, calcium D-pantothenate, pantothenate de calcium
Substance Class Calcium salt of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)
INCI Name CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE
CAS Number 137-08-6
Quality EU Cosmetic Regulation compliant

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> What is CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE?

Calcium pantothenate is the calcium salt of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) — a water-soluble vitamin that the body cannot synthesize itself. It was first isolated in 1931 by Roger J. Williams and received its name from the Greek pantos (everywhere), as it occurs in almost all foods. In skin care, it is metabolized to coenzyme A, the central molecule for over 70 enzymatic processes — from fatty acid synthesis to energy production and collagen production. Unlike unstable pantothenic acid, the calcium salt is storage-stable and can be easily incorporated into serums and creams. It is one of the most tolerable active ingredients of all: even with the most sensitive skin, allergic reactions are almost unknown.

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> Where does CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE come from?

Produced synthetically by a reaction of D-pantothenic acid with calcium hydroxide. This form is more stable and has a better shelf life than pure pantothenic acid, which is very hygroscopic and would be difficult to process in formulations. In modern cosmetics, extraction and processing are subject to strict quality standards according to the EU Cosmetic Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. RAU Cosmetics only sources cosmetic-grade raw materials from certified suppliers.

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> How does CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE work on a cellular level?

Hydrolyzed in the skin to pantothenic acid and then metabolized to coenzyme A. Coenzyme A is essential for fatty acid synthesis in skin cells, thereby strengthening the lipid barrier. In addition, it stimulates the proliferation of fibroblasts and accelerates epithelialization — that's why it is used in wound healing ointments. Increases skin moisture by reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" width="32" height="32" aria-hidden="true"> Dosage & Regulation

Typical use concentration: 0.5-5% in creams and serums, 1-3% in hair care products, up to 10% in therapeutic wound healing formulations

How it works on your skin

Deep-Acting Moisture Binding

Calcium pantothenate is metabolized to coenzyme A, which controls the synthesis of ceramides and other skin lipids. In clinical studies, a reduction in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) of 10-16% could be demonstrated. Simultaneously, it increases the water-binding capacity of the horny layer by stimulating natural moisturizing factors (NMF).

Barrier Repair

Promotes lipid lamellar formation in the stratum corneum by activating HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis. These lipids are essential for an intact skin barrier. In damaged skin (e.g., after chemical exfoliants), pantothenic acid accelerates the restoration of barrier function by up to 40%.

Cell Regeneration & Wound Healing

Stimulates the migration and proliferation of keratinocytes and fibroblasts by modulating growth factors such as TGF-β. In vitro studies show up to 70% faster epithelialization in skin injuries. That's why dexpanthenol (provitamin B5) is used in wound healing ointments like Bepanthen® — calcium pantothenate works identically after hydrolysis.

Anti-Inflammatory

Inhibits the transcription factor NF-κB, thereby reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. This alleviates redness, itching, and irritation. Particularly effective for atopic dermatitis and post-inflammatory skin irritation — without the immunosuppressive effect of cortisone.

Anti-Aging Through Collagen Support

Coenzyme A is a cofactor for over 70 enzymatic reactions, including the acetylation of proteins that are important for collagen synthesis. Studies show increased fibroblast activity and improved skin elasticity after 8-12 weeks of regular use. In addition, it protects against oxidative stress by promoting glutathione synthesis.

Who is it for?

Dry skin

Strengthens the lipid barrier by promoting ceramide synthesis and measurably reduces moisture loss by up to 16% after 4 weeks.

Sensitive skin

Accelerates the regeneration of the skin barrier after irritation and has an anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting NF-κB.

Mature skin

Stimulates fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis, leading to improved skin elasticity.

Blemish-prone skin

Reduces inflammation and accelerates the healing of post-acne lesions without clogging pores.

In your routine

In the morning after cleansing

Apply 1-2 drops of a serum with 2-5% calcium pantothenate to slightly damp skin. Gently pat in so that it can penetrate deeper skin layers.

Before the moisturizer

As a water-soluble vitamin, calcium pantothenate absorbs quickly and should be applied before oil-based products. Wait time: approx. 1-2 minutes before applying your day cream.

Combination with niacinamide

Calcium pantothenate can be perfectly combined with niacinamide (vitamin B3) — both B vitamins reinforce each other in their barrier-strengthening effect. Ideal for sensitive skin.

For irritated skin (SOS care)

After exfoliants, laser treatments, or for sunburn: generously apply a product with 5-10% panthenol or calcium pantothenate. Repeat several times a day until the skin has regenerated.

Storage: Stable in aqueous solutions at pH 4-7. Hydrolytic cleavage can occur at extreme pH values (below 3 or above 9). Light-sensitive — should be stored in opaque or tinted packaging. Hygroscopic, so airtight storage is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between calcium pantothenate, panthenol, and pantothenic acid?

All three are forms of vitamin B5, but differ in structure and stability. Pantothenic acid is the biologically active form, but very unstable and hygroscopic. Calcium pantothenate is the stable calcium salt of pantothenic acid — ideal for powders and water-based formulations. Panthenol (dexpanthenol) is an alcohol derivative that is oxidized to pantothenic acid after penetration into the skin. In cosmetics, panthenol is often preferred because it penetrates the skin better, while calcium pantothenate is mainly used in dietary supplements and more stable formulations.

Can you overdose on calcium pantothenate or does it have side effects?

Vitamin B5 is water-soluble and is not stored by the body — excess is excreted via the kidneys. Even with oral intake of up to 10 grams per day, no toxic effects were observed. In cosmetic products, the concentrations are much lower (0.5-5%), so side effects are extremely rare. Allergic reactions are hardly documented. Only at very high dosages (> 10% in leave-on products) could a slightly sticky skin feel theoretically occur because it is hygroscopic.

Why is panthenol usually used in wound healing ointments instead of calcium pantothenate?

Panthenol (dexpanthenol) has a better ability to penetrate the skin barrier because it is more lipophilic than the calcium salt. It can also be incorporated into ointment bases in higher concentrations (up to 5% in Bepanthen®) without affecting the texture. Calcium pantothenate is more water-soluble and is therefore used more in serums, toners, and oral supplements. Both forms are converted into pantothenic acid in the skin and then work identically — the difference lies primarily in the formulation technique.

Does calcium pantothenate really help against acne?

Yes, but indirectly. Vitamin B5 regulates sebum production by influencing fat metabolism — especially the coenzyme A-dependent metabolism of fats. In a 2014 study, oral intake of high-dose pantothenic acid (1-10g/day) led to a reduction in acne lesions by up to 68% after 12 weeks. Topically applied, it primarily has an anti-inflammatory effect and accelerates the healing of post-acne scars. It is not a classic anti-acne agent like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, but supports skin regeneration and barrier function.

Can I use calcium pantothenate together with retinol or vitamin C?

Absolutely, and it is even recommended! Calcium pantothenate buffers the irritation that can be caused by retinol or high-concentration vitamin C serums (ascorbic acid). It strengthens the skin barrier and accelerates regeneration, so the skin reacts less sensitively to these active ingredients. Many professional formulations combine retinol with panthenol or calcium pantothenate to increase tolerability. Chemically there is no incompatibility — on the contrary, the antioxidant effect of vitamin C is supplemented by the barrier-strengthening effect of B5.

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