Hair Care

PANTOGAR: CONTRAINDICATIONS, PRICES, BENEFITS, USER OPINIONS, COMPOSITION… EVERYTHING

Pantogar is one of the most famous hair nourishing complexes available on the market today. The product is a great success in eorupe and in several countries around the world, and the benefits are tempting: it promises to combat diffuse hair loss, stimulate the growth of stronger hairs and even prevent the appearance of gray hair (it only needs to serve! coffee and bring a loved one every three days!).

Pantogar became an internet fever, embraced by fans of the blogosphere and becoming part of many people’s hair care routine. But why all the fuss?

It has already been said that when the alms are large, even the saint is suspicious: practically all the “miracle” products that bombard the Internet are surrounded by myths and rumors that are not always true. It wouldn’t be different with Pantogar, right?

We made this guide to clarify once and for all what Pantogar really is , what it does – and doesn’t do – and to answer the most frequently asked questions related to the product.

Does Pantogar really work ? Are you fattening? Does it make hair grow faster ? We are going to address these and other issues in this article, so pay attention!

You can see the basic information about Pantogar in the infographic below , and then read the detailed answers to the most frequently asked questions, if you have any questions, do not forget to tell us in the comments at the end of this article.

What is Pantogar?

Pantogar is a complex of substances ( vitamins , amino acids , keratin and yeast ) that are used for the treatment of diffuse hair loss and structural problems in hair and nails. It is marketed in countries around the world.

That makes?

In most clinical pictures of diffuse hair loss, there is an imbalance in the ratio of hairs that are in the growth phase (anagen) and fall (telogen) . The overall number of hairs in the telogen phase is usually close to 10%, but when this imbalance occurs it can reach 30% .

This condition is called telogen effluvium and it can have different causes (hormonal and nutritional problems, some diseases, reaction to drugs, among many others). This causes a “thinning” of the hair throughout the scalp , and can appear suddenly or for several months, depending on the cause.

What Pantogar promises is to restore the balance between the hair phases by stimulating hair that entered the telogen phase too early to return to the anagen phase. According to the manufacturers, the product “reactivates the natural function of the hair root, stopping the fall. Cell division is stimulated and the hair leaves the resting phase and returns again to the active growth phase ” (last stage in the previous figure). Click on the image to learn more about the hair growth cycle.

Other benefits could be that hair and nails are stronger and more resistant , by solving problems and weaknesses of the structural formation, promoting their healthy growth and protecting them against external damages (such as physical trauma and damage caused by ultraviolet solar radiation) . In addition, Pantogar is also described as an aid in the prevention of gray hair .

For which cases is it indicated?

The Pantogar is recommended for:

  • Diffuse hair loss of unknown cause ( telogen effluvium );
  • Weak , thin , brittle , dull hair , with damage to smoothness and color ;
  • Hair damaged by solar radiation ;
  • The prevention of the appearance of gray hair ;
  • Brittle, cracked and slightly flexible nails .

The Pantogar is not indicated in cases of:

  • Androgenic alopecia ( classic baldness ) : hair loss in these cases is due to genetic and hormonal causes, and Pantogar cannot stop it. What you can do is strengthen the hair that exists, but it will still fall out in the future.
  • Scarring alopecia – Some diseases, burns, and other physical injuries can cause permanent damage to the hair follicles, which Pantogar is unable to reverse.

What is the composition of Pantogar?

Vitamin B5: Calcium Pantothenate

According to the Pantogar website , calcium pantothenate “strengthens the energy metabolism of cell reproduction, stimulates cell division and reinforces the regeneration of existing cells.” In fact, we are talking about vitamin B5 , which is essential for various activities in our body (transformation of nutrients, production of hormones and red blood cells, among others).

Studies have linked vitamin B5 deficiency to damage to hair and skin in animals, but there is still no research confirming the same effect in humans, however, many manufacturers add the vitamin in their cosmetics. One of the most popular products for treating skin irritations and lesions, Bepanthol , has as its active ingredient vitamin B5 (in the form of dexpanthenol).

Vitamin B5 is naturally abundant in our food (it is present in dairy products, eggs, fish, meat, avocado, lentils, broccoli, among others) and cases of deficiency are rare. 

Cystine

The manufacturer explains that cystine is the “main component of hair keratin, it promotes the natural functioning of the hair root and has an antioxidant effect, which acts as a scavenger of free radicals . 

Cystine is a derivative of cysteine, a non-essential amino acid (which means that our body is capable of producing it, it is not necessary to obtain it through food). Both are involved in the formation of chemical bonds that determine whether the hair is straight or curly (these are bonds that break and rebuild when you do some chemical straightening).

Vitamin B1: Thiamine nitrate

The function of vitamin B1 in Pantogar, according to the manufacturer, is to “increase the metabolic activity of the hair root.” In our body, it is also useful in the prevention of disorders such as cataracts, kidney and metabolic diseases and in the control of pain associated with the menstrual period.

Other potential benefits include strengthening the immune system, relieving stress symptoms, and treating some digestive problems. Vitamin B1 is present in seeds and whole grains, eggs, legumes, nuts, meats and vegetables.

Medicinal yeast

In Pantogar, yeast “provides vitamins and trace elements, activates metabolism and stimulates the formation of new hair cells . ” This is brewer’s yeast , which is often marketed as a dietary supplement in powder or pill form. It is rich in proteins, B vitamins and various minerals (or trace elements also called calcium, iron, copper, cobalt, iodine, etc.).

Keratin

“The main component of all hairs and a fundamental element for hair health , explains the Pantogar website. Keratin is also part of the outermost layer of the skin and structures such as feathers, horns and hooves of animals. It gives strength and resistance to these structures and helps protect our body (and the inside of the hair) from external elements. 

Aminobenzoic acid

Also known as PABA (which means para-aminobenzoic acid in English) or vitamin B10 (although it is not essential for humans). According to the manufacturer, aminobenzoic acid “has a positive effect on hair pigmentation, preventing the premature appearance of gray hair . 

The substance is used in some sunscreens (for being able to protect against UVB rays) and the treatment of certain diseases (such as vitiligo). It also stimulates the production of folic acid (vitamin B9) in the intestinal flora.

Excipients

They are substances without pharmaceutical effect that serve as drug carriers. In Pantogar, the excipients are microcrystalline cellulose, talc, magnesium stearate, povidone and silicon dioxide.

How to take Pantogar?

The recommended dose on the Pantogar label is:

  • For adults : 3 capsules a day (upon waking, lunch and dinner, for example);
  • For children over 12 years old , 1 to 2 capsules a day.

The capsules should be swallowed whole (without breaking or chewing) with some liquid during meals, the manufacturer recommends avoiding hot liquids, which can interfere with the action of the active ingredients contained in the product. The doctor may recommend the use of a different frequency indicated in the package leaflet.

How long does it take to take effect?

Many people say that they observe differences in the first month, with the appearance of small hairs on the scalp (which would be the new hairs produced by the follicles that were in the process of “numbing”). It is difficult to see significant results before this period because Pantogar acts on the root of the hair. For this reason, the effects only become evident when the hair grows. The leaflet in the package says that the treatment should last 3-6 months , although it may be extended or repeated in the future.

If I take more pills a day, does the effect take place faster?

No. The manufacturer states that “it is not advisable to take a higher dose than indicated, since it is scientifically proven that the recommended dose of 3 capsules per day is very effective” .

On the other hand, the excess of some substances in the body can be as or more harmful than the deficiency (some vitamins can even cause hair loss if they are in very high levels in the body). Do not risk taking more than indicated by the manufacturer, without the prescription and supervision of your doctor.

Are there any contraindications?

Pantogar may reduce the effect of some antibiotics that contain sulfonamides (look for the following names on the package insert: sulfabenzamide, sulfacetamide, sulfachloropyridazine, sulfachrysoidine, sulfadiazine, or sulfamethoxazole). If you are being treated with any of these medications, talk to your doctor before starting Pantogar.

Although the manufacturer does not report known interactions between Pantogar and other medications, it is best to inform your doctor about any products you are using before starting treatment (including medications, contraceptives, vitamins, or other supplements).

Can I take Pantogar if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The use of Pantogar is only recommended in the second half of pregnancy , and always under medical supervision. There are no known restrictions on the period of breastfeeding (consult your doctor, especially if you are already taking other dietary supplements).

Are there any age restrictions? Can children and adolescents take it?

The use of Pantogar is not recommended for children under 12 years of age because there are no studies conducted for this age group. There are no restrictions for other ages (adolescents, adults or the elderly). Again, the ideal is to ask your doctor’s opinion.

Can men also take Pantogar?

Yes! Many people have the impression that the Pantogar is exclusively for women, which is not true. What happens is that the most common type of male hair loss is androgenic alopecia (classic baldness), which does not benefit from treatment with Pantogar. But in all other cases, the product offers the same advantages, both for men and women.

Does Pantogar make hair grow faster?

Not necessarily. The promise of the product is to help in cases of diffuse hair loss, making the follicles return to the anagen (growth) phase. This means that whoever has hair that is “thinner” due to hair loss should be able to regain density throughout the treatment, but the hair will not grow faster.

Manufacturers promise fast hair growth in a short time. But the Pantogar website says that “as hair only grows about one centimeter per month, the success of the treatment takes several months to show . ” This is the normal rate of hair growth (approximately 1.25 cm per month , or 15 cm per year ). This varies slightly from person to person, but anything between 1 and 2 cm per month is considered normal.

Of course, if the normal growth of your hair is compromised due to some nutritional deficiency and it is corrected (either by Pantogar, by your diet or by other supplements), it may be that the hair will regain its rhythm and begin to grow. But don’t expect any miracles in this regard (unfortunately this time we didn’t find what Rapunzel wears!).

Do you still have doubts? Did you see a “before and after” of someone swearing that their hair has grown much faster and you want to experiment? A good way to test is to measure the same section of hair for a few months before treatment (to see how fast your hair is growing normally) and to continue measurements after you start taking the drug (to compare rates more ahead).

Does Pantogar recover the hair that has grown out?

No. Pantogar does not act on the axis of the grown hair: its effect occurs in the hair follicle (which is under the skin) and only affects the part of the hair that is growing during the treatment. If the hair extension is dry or brittle, the Pantogar will not affect it, but if it acts on the hair from the beginning, it must be stronger and more resistant.

This means that the correct way to interpret the results of treatment with Pantogar is by looking at the roots , not the tips. If you are taking the medicine for six months, for example, your hair will have grown about 7.5 cm from the start of the treatment: this is 7.5 cm of hair closer to your scalp that should be stronger and longer healthy because of Pantogar.

So it’s clear: the drug is not going to “fix” split ends, a failed cut, straighten or radically transform the smoothness and shine of all hair in just a few months. What it will do is strengthen the part of the hair that will grow from the moment you start taking Pantogar.

Can it cause side effects?

In general, the Pantogar is commonly very well tolerated. There are reports of reactions such as excessive sweating, rapid pulse, itching, and gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, gas, and abdominal pain), but these are rare. Anyway, you should inform your doctor of any reaction that arises after the initiation of treatment.

Does Pantogar make you fat?

Pantogar’s formula is calorie-free in a significant amount to promote any weight change (each capsule has 0.5 kcal – about half the calories in a lettuce leaf). I mean, no, Pantogar is not fattening .

However, some people say that they have gained weight during treatment with Pantogar. The most common hypothesis for this effect is that they would have a vitamin B1 deficiency , which causes a decrease in appetite . As Pantogar contains vitamin B1, it would be able to normalize the picture and make the normal appetite return, this does not mean that it will happen to you. A healthy and balanced diet can help not only to satisfy increased appetite, but also to obtain other nutrients that your body needs (which can end up giving your hair more health and vitality). On the other hand, many people who had noticed an increase in appetite at the beginning of treatment say that they returned to normal after a few days.

Does Pantogar cause pimples on my face?

The appearance or increasing the frames acne are not included among the possible side effects of Pantogar , but there are reports of people who observed the appearance of grains during treatment. This is a relatively common side effect of using supplements that contain a group B vitamin . Since Pantogar has vitamins B1 and B5, this may be the cause.

This effect does not occur in everyone, who has a history of acne is more likely to have this reaction, but not everyone is affected. Some people say they have had pimples at the beginning of treatment, but then they go away on their own.

Even if your acne is persistent, your skin should return to normal once the Pantogar treatment is finished. Also investigate if the problem is not being caused by other causes.

Do hairs on the face and body grow faster with Pantogar?

There is no way to make the components of Pantogar act specifically on the hairs on the head – so much so that it also acts on the nails. However, the Merz laboratory (which markets Pantogar abroad) says that “there is no known noticeable effect of Pantogar on the growth of this type of hair . ” This is, in theory, because the hairs on the face and body have a fairly short (anagen) growth phase (different from hair, which can spend years at this stage).

What is the price of Pantogar?

The box with 30 Pantogar capsules costs around € 60 and the box with 90 capsules has an average price of € 180 . Pharmacies often run promotions , so it’s not difficult to find Pantogar for a cheaper price than usual. So do a little research and shop around before you buy.

The price of Pantogar varies a lot depending on the constant promotions in pharmacies, so find out before you buy.

Is it worth using Pantogar?

It depends on your case and your expectations about the results. It is important to remember that hair loss can have several causes , so the ideal is to investigate your picture before choosing any treatment. If you are losing hair due to anemia or some hormonal problem, for example, Pantogar will not help much to reverse the situation.

On the other hand, both in the case of Pantogar and in any other similar supplement, it is essential to have realistic expectations about the possible results. In a week of treatment you will not have 30 cm of hair with the softness of pure silk, so let’s go easy, okay?

If you understand all this, if your hair loss fits the cases for which Pantogar is recommended and if you want your hair to grow stronger and healthier, especially if you have the perseverance and patience to follow the treatment for several months, Pantogar can be a good choice for you.

Can Pantogar be manipulated? At what price?

Yes. The main advantage is that it is generally cheaper: an average price of € 60 for a box of 90 capsules (a 60% discount on the price of the original). Values ​​may vary based on pharmacy and composition, so it’s worth doing a price research first, too.

IMPORTANT: some people who felt sick with the tampered version of Pantogar, but this reaction occurred when a version of the unleavened one was made.

What is the formula to make Pantogar manipulated?

The composition of the original Pantogar is:

  • Calcium pantothenate (vitamin B5) 60 mg
  • Thiamine nitrate (vitamin B1) 60 mg
  • Cysteine ​​(amino acid) 20 mg
  • Keratin 20 mg
  • Medicinal yeast 100 mg
  • Aminobenzoic acid 20 mg

The original formula has excipients such as microcrystalline cellulose, talc, magnesium stearate, povidone and silicon dioxide, but they vary according to the composition of the pharmacy.

The manipulated Pantogar formula can be adapted in some pharmacies, but there is no guarantee that the changes will affect the effectiveness of the product (for better or for worse).

Tip: Some people who felt sick with the tampered version of Pantogar, but this reaction occurred when a version of the unleavened one was made.

Are the results of the manipulated Pantogar the same as the original?

You cannot be absolutely sure and there is no proof . Many people say that they have had very good results with the “generic” version, but since there is no standardization of production (each laboratory works in one way), you cannot guarantee that your experience will be similar.

The quality of the drug compounds depends mainly on the seriousness and the competence of the magisterial formulation, so the ideal is that you look for reliable establishments.

Some pharmacies produce versions with more keratin than the original formula, or collagen or biotin instead, but there is no evidence that these changes make the product more or less effective than the original.

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