Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
For the health condition: Hair (loss or thinning)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) has been traditionally included in some hair care products and supplements with claims of supporting hair growth or reducing hair loss. The rationale is partly based on its general role in cellular metabolism and energy production, which are necessary for healthy hair follicles. However, scientific validation for Vitamin B5 specifically preventing or treating hair loss or thinning in humans is extremely limited. While B5 deficiency can cause a range of non-specific symptoms, true deficiencies are rare and hair loss is not a hallmark symptom in humans.

Some older animal studies and in vitro research have suggested a potential link between pantothenic acid and hair pigmentation or growth, but these findings have not been substantiated by controlled human trials. Most claims about B5’s benefits for hair health stem from traditional use, anecdotal reports, or marketing of pantothenol (a derivative of B5) in shampoos for hair strength and sheen. Major dermatological and clinical references do not endorse pantothenic acid as a treatment for hair loss or thinning. Overall, while the vitamin is essential for general health, its specific use for hair loss is supported by tradition and marketing rather than robust scientific evidence.

More about Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
More about Hair (loss or thinning)

Products containing Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.