Topical use of dexpanthenol: a 70th anniversary article

Abstract

Approximately 70 years ago, the first topical dexpanthenol-containing formulation (Bepanthen TM Ointment) has been developed. Nowadays, various topical dexpanthenol preparations exist, tailored according to individual requirements. Topical dexpanthenol has emerged as frequently used formulation in the field of dermatology and skin care. Various studies confirmed dexpanthenol's moisturizing and skin barrier enhancing potential. It prevents skin irritation, stimulates skin regeneration and promotes wound healing. Two main directions in the use of topical dexpanthenol-containing formulations have therefore been pursued: as skin moisturizer/skin barrier restorer and as facilitator of wound healing. This 70th anniversary paper reviews studies with topical dexpanthenol in skin conditions where it is most frequently used. Although discovered decades ago, the exact mechanisms of action of dexpanthenol have not been fully elucidated yet. With the adoption of new technologies, new light has been shed on dexpanthenol's mode of action at the molecular level. It appears that dexpanthenol increases the mobility of stratum corneum molecular components which are important for barrier function and modulates the expression of genes important for wound healing. This review will update readers on recent advances in this field. ARTICLE HISTORY

Brief Communication: Dexpanthenol and Its Ophthalmic Uses

“…As compared to untreated cells, treated fibroblasts showed a significant upregulation of IL-6, IL-8, Id1, HMOX-1, HspB7 and CYP1B1 expression. As IL-6 and IL-8 are among the cytokines most strongly expressed during wound healing [11,12], the upregulation of IL-6 and IL-8 expression in dermal fibroblasts further supports the fact that dexpanthenol containing topical ointments contribute to the wound healing.…”

“…Dexpanthenol, because of its soothing, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing properties and hygroscopic nature is used in lots of cosmetic products as emulsions, sunscreens, mouthwashes, shampoos and dental rinses [12,15].…”

Pharmacological efficacy of a synergistic composition based on activators of cAMP accumulation as a wound healing agent

“…The animals were divided into four groups: 1wounds treated with D1 aerosol (n = 10); 2wounds treated with D2 (n = 10); 3wounds treated with the reference drug dexpanthenol (Panthenol-Ratiopharm, 5% ointment) (n = 10); 4control group (n = 8). Dexpanthenol is a vitamin B5 -well-known substance in the world for tissues regeneration stimulating [24,25] Stencil wounds [26] of the back were simulated in animals under anesthesia with diethyl ether. The initial wound size was 4 ± 1.0 cm 2 .…”

Approaches to treatment and prevention of diaper dermatitis

“…В одной из зарубежных публикаций [22] подводится итог 70-летнего использования декспантенол-содержа-щей формулы, способствующей увлажнению и поддержа-нию кожного барьера. Обнаружено, что декспантенол повышает активность молекулярных компонентов клеток рогового слоя, модулирует экспрессию генов, регулирую-щих репарацию, что в конечном итоге нормализует барьерную функцию кожи [23].…”