Dry delicate facial skin, like no other type of dermis, is susceptible to the formation of peeling, tightness and various redness. The reasons can be very different: from windy frosty weather to the negative effects of harmful substances in the environment. To prevent the harmful effects of environmental and weather conditions on dry skin, well-known pharmaceutical brands are developing the latest products for the care of atopic skin. One such product is Bepanten Derma, created by the German pharmaceutical company Bayer.
What is it and when is it used
The drug is not cheap, but is constantly in demand. This is due to its excellent regenerating and disinfecting properties. At the same time, it is completely safe.
The cream solves such medical problems:
- skin damage and irritation;
- cracks in the nipples in women during lactation;
- burns of any origin;
- cuts, cracks in the skin;
- diaper rash in children;
- inflammation and hyperemia of the skin (for example, after tattooing).
The drug does not contain hormones.
How Bepanten works as a face cream
Bepanten is a multifunctional product; it can be used as a cream for any skin type.
Bepanthen is available in the form of a spray, cream and ointment. They differ primarily in consistency and composition:
- Ointment.
The densest form of Bepanten contains more fat, takes longer to be absorbed, but lasts longer. It is recommended to be used to treat dry, inflamed skin areas.
- Cream.
The product contains less fat in the base, therefore it is easier to apply and absorbs faster. Unlike ointment, it mainly solves superficial dermatological problems.
- Lotion.
Light emulsion, the concentration of the active substance in it is 2 times less than in cream and ointment. Suitable for oily and thin skin.
The cream and lotion are suitable for daily care and prevention of irritation. The ointment is used for medicinal purposes. When used on weeping skin lesions, the ointment blocks the access of oxygen and can provoke suppuration.
To moisturize dry and normal skin, Bepanten cream is applied to a cleansed face 1-2 times a day. In winter, the product is suitable as a day cream; it will protect the skin from wind and low temperatures; the active substance penetrates the lower layers of the epidermis and restores cell function.
Oily skin needs hydration no less than dry skin. Increased sebaceous secretions are a possible reaction to lack of moisture. Bepanten will moisturize problematic skin, soothe inflamed areas and heal acne wounds. Apply the cream or lotion to a cleansed face in the evening, blotting off the excess with a napkin.
Eyelids and eyes
The delicate structure and high regenerating properties of Bepanten cream make it possible to use it for the care of thin eyelid skin. The active components of the product moisturize the epidermis and strengthen blood vessels, which helps smooth the skin and reduce dark circles under the eyes.
Apply the lotion to the skin around the eyes in the morning and evening in a thin layer along the border of the eye socket, being careful. If it comes into contact with the mucous membrane, the drug may cause irritation. When using Bepanten, the skin does not need additional care; at this time you can forget about the usual cream.
Bepanten can be used to care for the skin of the eyelids for no more than a few days - active regeneration can cause peeling.
Is it effective in treating facial wrinkles?
As practice and customer reviews show, the cream has proven to be very effective for the face as a daily skin care and protection. It can be combined with other cosmetics.
Anti-wrinkle and for general improvement of facial skin condition, it is used both as a single product and as part of masks . The effectiveness is due to the content of lanolin and almond oil.
IMPORTANT!
The basic drug in Bepanten is provitamin B5.
It is necessary to apply the anti-wrinkle product according to your skin type. The ointment is ideal for dry skin. The moisturizing, nourishing and restorative properties of Bepanthen will help.
In addition, the product heals microcracks and wounds that often form on dry skin.
As for wrinkles around the eyes, these are age-related changes. Yes, sometimes they appear earlier as a result of lack of sleep, smoking, and stress. Bepanten is less effective in the eye area than on the face.
This is explained by the fact that the skin under the eyes is much thinner and itself dry, since there are few sebaceous glands.
The alcohols contained in Bepanthen can increase this dryness under the eyes . Therefore, the use of such a product in the fight against wrinkles under the eyes causes tightness and dryness for some.
Effect of Bepanten-Derma cream (Derma)
The new line of the German holding includes 5 unique products, which include active provitamin B5. Its action is aimed at intensively moisturizing the skin and nourishing dehydrated epidermal cells. D-panthenol is a viscous transparent substance that has a healing effect even in its pure form.
Cosmetics based on provitamin B5 have a pronounced regenerating effect, due to which the upper layers of the dermis are instantly restored. This beneficial effect of D-panthenol on dry skin has been repeatedly proven in clinical settings, as evidenced by positive results of laboratory studies.
Active and beneficial substances and their principle of action
Bepanthen’s good performance is due to its 3 components: dexpanthenol, lanolin and almond oil.
The active component of bepanthen is dexpanthenol, or provitamin B5 . The principle of action of the drug is based on the penetration of the active substance - dexpanthenol - into the skin structure.
As a result, it is converted into pantothenic acid in the epidermal cells.
It is a component of coenzyme A, which is responsible for the rapid restoration of damaged skin . This element ensures the regeneration of skin cells by starting the processes of restoration and renewal of the epithelium.
Pantothenic acid does not take part in cellular metabolism and is excreted from the body in its original form by the kidneys.
In addition, Bepanten contains lanolin and almond oil, which have long been known for their moisturizing properties . Bepanten exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties due to the content of chlorhexidine.
Expert opinion
Shustova Olga Leonidovna
Obstetrician-gynecologist of the highest category
I consider Bepanten one of the best healing, hypoallergenic, safe and high-quality drugs after some cosmetic procedures: peeling, tattoos, in the treatment of acne and peeling of the skin. Practice has shown that Bepanten can also be used as an anti-aging agent. The molecules of the product, in the form of emollients and moisture retainers, ensure the penetration of pantothenic acid molecules between the cells of the deep layers of the skin and smooth it out. If you look at the composition of Bepanten, its components are exclusively natural, moisture-preserving and attracting moisture from the air.
Analogs
Bepanthen has become a very famous and popular medicine. This is a high-quality foreign product with an appropriate price.
But domestic manufacturers are not lagging behind and produce good analogues of this drug, their cost is much cheaper.
Let's consider the main analogues of Bepanten:
- Pantoderm - the product has a restorative, metabolic effect on the dermis. Fights simple skin damage, dermatitis. The drug is used by applying to damaged, inflamed areas of the dermis twice a day. The main component is dexpanthenol. The average cost of 30 grams is 200 rubles ;
- Dexpanthenol – has an anti-inflammatory and restorative effect. The main component is pantothenic acid, which supports the proper functioning of the epithelium. If the skin or tissue is damaged, a deficiency of pantothenic acid occurs, and this is where Dexpanthenol comes to the rescue. The product in the form of a gel quickly penetrates through the layers of the dermis and brings a good therapeutic result. The price for a tube of 25 grams is 130 rubles ;
- Alantan plus - treats skin defects: wounds, cracks, scratches, pimples. It also helps with sunburn, prevents diaper rash in babies, and fights various types of dermatitis. The average price for 30 g is 150 rubles ;
- Drapolene is a product with antiseptic and antimicrobial effects, used to combat acne. The main components of the drug are cetrimide and benzalkonium chloride. Using Drapolen, the dermis is softened and moisturized. The cost of this product varies from 40 to 60 rubles .
Pantoderm Dexpanthenol Alantan plus Drapolene
Composition of the drug
Different release forms have the same composition, but differ in consistency; for example, the ointment has a fairly thick texture and leaves a greasy sheen on the skin.
The composition of Bepanten cream (in addition to the active substances listed above) is a complex of gentle non-hormonal components. The preparation contains liquid paraffin and purified water, cetyl and stearyl or cetearyl alcohol (fatty monohydric alcohols) .
These natural substances are obtained from coconut and palm oils, as well as sperm whale fat. They have antibacterial and drying properties. Thanks to this, the substance successfully copes with skin inflammation.
Additional substances that improve the condition of the dermis include almond oil, beeswax, and lanolin (sheep fat).
Water moisturizes the skin, pantolactone is a skin conditioner . Amphizole K is a mixture of cetyl alcohol and phosphoric acid esters, used as an emulsifier.
Propylene glycol protects cosmetics from pathogenic bacteria and prevents them from multiplying, and helps attract moisture from the air into skin cells.
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative, protegin X is a natural, non-toxic emulsifier consisting of petroleum jelly (refractory petroleum jelly), castor oil and a number of fatty acids.
All excipients are safe and contained in minute doses. Most of the drug is water. It is this that creates a light structure and promotes rapid absorption upon application.
Description of release forms and composition
The manufacturer of this drug is the well-known company Bayer. The drug is manufactured in various forms, their composition is completely the same, the only difference is in the additional components included in it, which give the drug the desired consistency and viscosity.
The release forms are as follows:
- Ointment 5% - has a thick consistency, while it is absorbed longer and leaves greasy marks after application. Bepanten ointment is available in a tube of 30 g;
- Lotion 2.5% - has a light watery texture, applied using a spray. It is produced in bottles of 200 ml;
- Cream 5% - also has a light creamy texture, is quickly absorbed and immediately penetrates the site of inflammation, leaving no traces after application. Presented in the same way as the ointment, in the form of a tube of 30 g;
- Bepanten Plus is a separate product in the form of a cream, which is combined, it helps to actively stimulate the development of new dermal cells. Available in a tube of 30 g.
Bepanten ointment 5% Bepanten lotion 2.5% Bepanten cream 5% Bepanten Plus
In all dosage forms of Bepanten, the main components in the composition are dexpanthenol - provitamin B5, as well as chlorhexidine, which is the antibacterial component.
It also contains cetyl and cetearyl alcohols, which dry out acne.
The minor components of the drug include the following ingredients that soften the skin:
- Almond oil;
- Mineral oils;
- Lanolin;
- Beeswax.
Bepanthen has a pure white or yellowish color, without aroma.
Indications for use
All forms of release of Bepanthen are intended to eliminate skin problems . You can absolutely safely use Bepanten as an anti-wrinkle remedy. The only downside is that it won’t change very deep wrinkles much.
But, in fact, no one, even the most advertised product, has ever succeeded in doing this.
NOTE!
The calming effect allows it to be used for a long time. It improves the appearance of the skin by eliminating dryness and flaking.
Bepanten is approved for use at any age, even pregnancy and lactation are not an obstacle.
Benefits of Bepanthen:
- The drug is universal, it helps with any skin irritation, scar defects and acne spots.
- High speed of action and stability of results.
- Availability - available without a prescription.
- Pronounced disinfecting and calming effect.
- Does not leave marks on clothes or bedding. Therefore, it can be used at night without any fear.
- Moisturizes the skin.
- Safety of use.
Recommendations for use
Bepanten is a drug that is sold in pharmacies (without a prescription). Therefore, it has a clear range of indications for use:
- skin care for babies up to one year old. It is used as a treatment for diaper dermatitis and diaper rash. However, doctors recommend that mothers use the product as a preventive measure for these dermatological problems;
- elimination of irritations on any area of the skin, regardless of the cause. These could be sunburn, chemical burns, abrasions, and other factors;
- treatment and prevention of cracks, irritations, peeling, wounds on the nipples during breastfeeding;
- restoration of the integrity of the skin (wounds, abrasions, scratches, cuts, cracks). If these are minor, recent problems, the product is applied immediately. If the damage is deep, occupying a large area - only at the final stage, after using other specific medications;
- if there is a risk of infection entering minor wounds and other damage to the skin, use Bepanten Plus lotion and cream, which contain chlorhexidine hydrochloride;
- in the complex treatment of chronic skin problems: erosion, cracks, ulcers;
- in the presence of excessive dryness, peeling, cracking of epidermal tissues;
- treatment of acne, inflamed and ruptured.
Cosmetologists recommend using Bepanten cream after traumatic procedures (cleaning, deep peeling, etc.) to quickly restore the epidermis.
Apply a thin layer of ointment or cream to the area of irritated skin twice a day. If it is local damage (pimple, burn), you can make applications (pointwise). It is better to use the ointment at night, as it has a denser consistency and a higher concentration of active substances. Cream is better during the day. It does not leave a sticky film and is quickly absorbed.
Cosmetologist about Bepanten plus cream:
Both for therapeutic and preventive purposes, large areas are covered with cream. It moisturizes the skin well and restores the top layer. You can use the product for as long as you like until the desired result is achieved. There is no habituation.
However, treatment with chlorhexidine (lotion, Bepanten plus cream) is carried out over a course of 10 days with a break of at least a week. With longer use, the antibacterial properties decrease, as the microbial flora loses sensitivity to the active component.
How to use?
The rules for treatment with Bepanten depend on the dermatological problem . It is always applied to previously cleansed skin.
Typically, Bepanten should be applied in a thin layer and lightly rubbed in. The product is absorbed into the skin quickly and does not leave an oily sheen.
Bepanthen can be applied to large areas of skin. The drug is safe and can be used for a long time.
There are no strict terms for using Bepanten; it is used until the existing problem is solved, and also as a prophylactic agent to protect the skin.
The cream perfectly protects women's faces not only against wrinkles, but also from UV rays, if applied half an hour before going outside. Bepanthen for wrinkles should be applied no more than 2 times a day for a month. Then you can take a break for 2 months and resume again.
An interesting fact noted by cosmetologists is that the skin of the face does not get used to Bepanten and the effect remains even after prolonged use . By the way, other creams cannot boast of such an effect.
At the same time, the cream is suitable for protection against flaking for oily and combination dermis. Using Bepanten ointment for wrinkles will have the opposite effect due to the density of its structure.
But for those with normal and dry skin, it is better to use ointment . The instructions say that Bepanten can be used without a doctor’s prescription. Effectiveness appears within 2-3 days.
Pimples and acne
There is an opinion that Bepanten treats acne and helps get rid of acne. There is some truth in this, but the therapeutic effect for this problem should not be exaggerated.
Bepanten products help cope with minor rashes and single pimples when applied to the spot, especially if combined with other medicinal products. The line contains very little alcohol, so it does not dry out the skin like other similar products.
Helps with sebaceous glands on the face
The big advantage of these drugs is their double action: they help heal problem areas and immediately smooth out pits and scars, which often leave behind problems with the sebaceous glands on the face.
It is worth considering that hormonal acne rashes in adolescence cannot be treated with Bepanthen alone. This requires a more serious integrated approach, and always under the supervision of a dermatologist. The same applies to advanced stages of acne. German brand ointments and creams can clog pores, causing inflammation. Therefore, it is better to choose other drugs specially designed for such problems.
Side effects
You should be aware that the ointment and cream contain comedogenic substances. Comedones are whitish papules on the skin, harbingers of acne. .
Therefore, long-term use of Bepanten by people with oily skin can cause the formation of sebaceous plugs as a result of blockage of the glands.
This impairs skin nutrition, prevents it from breathing oxygen and leads to the appearance of new acne. In addition, such skin shows signs of early aging and new wrinkles appear faster.
Other side effects include dry skin, as the drug contains alcohols . Therefore, if you have dry skin, it must be additionally protected.
Other (rare) side effects include allergic manifestations: nettle rash, itching.
Contraindications
The product is not recommended for use in case of allergic intolerance to any of the active ingredients in the composition . Test the product on a small area of skin first. To do this, apply a small amount of cream to the skin in the elbow area. If itching or discomfort occurs, immediately rinse the area with plenty of water. Find out what to do if you are allergic to the cream in this material.
