Panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is widely used in topical formulations for supporting skin healing, including minor scratches and abrasions. Scientific evidence suggests that panthenol helps improve skin hydration, accelerates epidermal wound healing, and enhances barrier function. Several in vitro studies and clinical trials have demonstrated that panthenol promotes proliferation of fibroblasts and supports epithelialization, which are key processes in wound repair. For example, a 2012 review published in Journal of Dermatological Treatment highlights panthenol’s ability to stimulate skin regeneration and reduce transepidermal water loss, leading to improved healing of superficial skin injuries.

Clinical studies involving ointments and creams containing 2-5% panthenol have shown faster resolution of minor wounds and reduced signs of inflammation such as redness and irritation. While most of these studies are small and sometimes combined panthenol with other emollients or active ingredients, the overall consensus supports its beneficial role in managing minor skin abrasions and scratches.

Although additional large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials would further strengthen the evidence, the current scientific literature justifies the use of panthenol in the topical management of minor skin injuries based on its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties.