Lanolin

The Basics On Lanolin

What is Lanolin?

Emollient, very thick substance derived from sheep.

What are other names for Lanolin?

ADSORPTION REFINED LANOLIN, ANHYDROUS LANOLIN, ANHYDROUS LANOLIN; LANOLIN, ANHYDROUS; LANOLIN OIL; LANOLIN OIL, HARD LANOLIN, HYDROUS LANOLIN, LANOLIN, LANOLIN ANHYDROUS USP, LANOLIN, ANHYDROUS, PURIFIED LANOLIN, WOOL FAT, and WOOL WAX

What is Lanolin used for?

Lanolin is a refined derivative of the fat-like sebaceous secretion of sheep. It is a complex natural product that cannot be synthesized. It is also a commonly used occlusive ingredient, along with products or compounds such as paraffin, squalene, Dimethicone, soybean oil, grapeseed oil, propylene glycol, and beeswax1. Importantly, though, lanolin, like mineral oil and petrolatum, is known for its dual activity exerting both occlusive and emollient effects1.Lanolin shares two important features with stratum corneum (SC) lipids: Lanolin contains cholesterol, an essential constituent of SC lipids, and Lanolin and SC lipids can coexist as solids and liquids at physiologic temperatures. However, lanolin is characterized by a very different composition than human sebum as is the case for commercial lanolin products. Significantly, the method used to refine the compound determines the quality and composition of the resulting formulation; therefore, not all lanolin products exhibit the same activity. Unfortunately, a small percentage of individuals who use lanolin develop contact sensitization to the occlusive/emollient agent 1. Lanolin is considered to be a low-risk ingredient for skincare use and safe to use in skincare2. However, Lanolin sometimes has been reported to cause skin irritations. Lanolin is a refined derivative of the fat-like sebaceous secretion of sheep. It is a complex natural product that cannot be synthesized. It is also a commonly used occlusive ingredient, along with products or compounds such as paraffin, squalene, Dimethicone, soybean oil, grapeseed oil, propylene glycol, and beeswax. It is considered a low-risk ingredient in skin care formulations but can sometimes cause skin irritations.

How Lanolin is classified

Emollients, Skin-Replenishing

Recommendations for using Lanolin during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Limited data suggests no known risk

 

Lanolin During Pregnancy

What we know about using Lanolin while pregnant or breastfeeding

Limited information available.

N/A

General safety info about Lanolin from CIR

The results of tests on animals and humans with Acetylated Lanolin and its related cosmetic ingredients are reviewed. This group of ingredients is used extensively in cosmetics as well as in many other consumer products. They have low acute toxicity and are nonsensitizing to animal skin. However, extensive clinical experience indicates that there is a low incidence of sensitivity to these materials among exposed persons. This experience wouldseem to involve mainly the lanolin alcohols. Based on the available animal data and human experience, it is concluded that lanolin and related lanolin materials described in the report are safe for topical application to humans in the present practice of use and concentration.

Use this, not that!

Products where you might find Lanolin

Elon Lanolin-Rich Nail Conditioner, Elon Lanolin Rich Nail Conditioner Jar; Bite Beauty Agave+ Intensive Vegan Lip Mask, First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Deep Cleanser With Red Clay, PATRICK TA Major Glow Softening Lip Masque, First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Ginger & Turmeric Vitamin C Jelly Mask, First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Daily Face Cream