Panthenyl Ethyl Ether is a derivative of panthenol (vitamin B5) that is used in cosmetic formulations for its moisturizing and conditioning properties. It is known for enhancing the skin's barrier function and providing hydration while offering a more stable and less irritating alternative to traditional panthenol.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Components: Panthenyl Ethyl Ether is composed of ethyl ether of panthenol. It retains the core benefits of panthenol with improved stability.
Chemical Formula: C_11H_22O_4
Structure: The molecule features an ethyl ether group attached to the panthenol structure, which contributes to its enhanced stability and efficacy.

Physical Properties

Appearance: Typically a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid.
Odor: Mild, characteristic of panthenol.
Solubility: Soluble in water and commonly used in aqueous-based cosmetic formulations.

Production Process

Synthesis:
Panthenyl Ethyl Ether is synthesized through the chemical reaction of panthenol with ethyl ether. This process enhances the stability of the panthenol and improves its performance in cosmetic products.
Purification:
The product undergoes purification to ensure it is free from impurities and meets quality standards.
Standardization:
The ingredient is standardized to maintain consistent quality and efficacy in formulations.

Applications

Cosmetics:

Moisturizers: Provides hydration and improves skin texture by enhancing moisture retention.
Conditioners and Hair Care Products: Helps to condition and smooth the hair, improving manageability and shine.
Serums and Masks: Offers deep hydration and skin barrier support.

Skin Care Products:

Anti-Aging: Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by improving skin hydration.
Soothing Agents: Can soothe irritated or sensitive skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin formulations.

Food Applications

Not typically used in food applications. Primarily employed in personal care and cosmetic products.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Biodegradability: Generally considered biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Safety Profile: Generally regarded as safe for topical use. However, as with any cosmetic ingredient, it is advisable to conduct a patch test before widespread use to check for any potential allergic reactions or sensitivities.
Regulations: Should comply with relevant cosmetic regulations to ensure safety and effectiveness. The ingredient should be manufactured sustainably and free from harmful contaminants.

INCI Functions:


Antistatic agent. Static electricity build-up has a direct influence on products and causes electrostatic adsorption. The antistatic ingredient reduces static build-up and surface resistivity on the surface of the skin and hair.

Hair conditioning agent. A significant number of ingredients with specific and targeted purposes may co-exist in hair shampoo formulations: cleansers, conditioners, thickeners, matting agents, sequestering agents, fragrances, preservatives, special additives. However, the indispensable ingredients are the cleansers and conditioners as they are necessary and sufficient for hair cleansing and manageability. The others act as commercial and non-essential auxiliaries such as: appearance, fragrance, colouring, etc. Hair conditioning agents have the task of increasing shine, manageability and volume, and reducing static electricity, especially after treatments such as colouring, ironing, waving, drying and brushing. They are, in practice, dispersants that may contain cationic surfactants, thickeners, emollients, polymers. The typology of hair conditioning agents includes: intensive conditioners, instant conditioners, thickening conditioners, drying conditioners. They can perform their task generally accompanied by other different ingredients.
Synonyms:

CAS: 667-83-4 EC number 211-569-1