So, I check my good mailbox and guess what?!?!  I have a sample of this goodness - Curls Milkshake Light Curl Styling Lotion!  When it comes to styling lotions and milks I have to be extremely careful because I, unlike the majority of folks, have a tree nut allergy.  So yes, high concentrations of shea will not work for me.  Oh how I would love to use the products that contain shea butter - I just can't.  Anywhoo, I'm reading the attached brochure to find that the milk is that of the wonderful coconut!  Yes, the fruit that grows closest to the sun.

During my client consultations, I ask prospective clients to bring in the products they are currently using. We review the products and I make recommendations based on the condition of their hair.  I consider myself to be knowledgeable about some ingredients, but have no problem admitting that I am unclear about others.  One of the ingredients that I commonly see on ingredients lists is panthenol.

Through my reading, I have heard many consider it to be a 'hair plumper', moisturizer...you name it!  After seeing it on a number of products that receive natural hair love, I became a bit curious about the ingredient.  I did my research and came up with my very own understanding of what this ingredient does for our hair and skin.

What is it?

Panthenol is a substance that is commonly used in skin and hair care products.  You may also hear it coined as 'pro-vitamin B'.

Where does it come from?

The substance can be derived from plant, animal or synthetically created.  Based on my findings, there is no way to tell where the instance in your particular product derives.  Many natural or vegan products may include labeling to notify you that the product contains no animal products or may even go as far to place '(plant derived)' behind the ingredient.