What are the main uses of lanolin in skincare. How does lanolin work as a moisturizer. What are potential side effects of using lanolin topically. Who should exercise caution when using lanolin-based products.

Understanding Lanolin: Nature’s Moisturizer

Lanolin is a natural substance derived from sheep’s wool that has been used for centuries in skincare and medical applications. Its unique properties make it an excellent emollient and moisturizer, capable of addressing various skin concerns. But what exactly is lanolin, and how does it work?

Lanolin is a waxy substance that closely resembles human sebum, the natural oil produced by our skin. This similarity allows lanolin to effectively mimic the skin’s natural moisturizing processes. When applied topically, lanolin forms a semi-occlusive barrier on the skin’s surface, which helps to lock in moisture and prevent water loss.

The Science Behind Lanolin’s Effectiveness

The molecular structure of lanolin enables it to absorb up to 200% of its weight in water. This remarkable property allows lanolin to:

• Attract and retain moisture from the environment
• Penetrate the skin’s upper layers
• Provide long-lasting hydration
• Improve skin elasticity and softness

These characteristics make lanolin an invaluable ingredient in many skincare products, particularly those designed for dry, sensitive, or compromised skin.

Primary Uses of Lanolin in Skincare and Medicine

Lanolin’s versatility makes it a popular choice for various topical applications. Here are some of the primary uses of lanolin:

Moisturizing Dry and Rough Skin

One of the most common uses of lanolin is as a moisturizer for dry, rough, and scaly skin. Its emollient properties help to soften and smooth the skin, reducing itching and flaking. Lanolin is particularly effective in treating:

• Xerosis (abnormally dry skin)
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Dermatitis

Treating Minor Skin Irritations

Lanolin’s protective and healing properties make it an excellent choice for treating minor skin irritations such as:

• Diaper rash
• Chapped lips
• Windburn
• Minor cuts and abrasions

Soothing Radiation Burns

For patients undergoing radiation therapy, lanolin-based products can help soothe and protect the skin from radiation burns. However, it’s crucial to consult with radiation personnel before applying any product to ensure it doesn’t interfere with the treatment.

Nipple Care for Breastfeeding Mothers

Lanolin is widely used by breastfeeding mothers to soothe and protect sore or cracked nipples. Its safe, non-toxic nature makes it ideal for this sensitive application, as it doesn’t need to be removed before feeding.

How to Use Lanolin Topically: Application Guidelines

To maximize the benefits of lanolin, it’s essential to use it correctly. Here are some general guidelines for applying lanolin topically:

1. Clean the affected area gently and pat dry.
2. Apply a thin layer of lanolin to the skin as needed or as directed by a healthcare professional.
3. For best results, apply lanolin to damp skin after bathing or showering.
4. If using on hands, reapply after washing.
5. When treating diaper rash, ensure the area is clean and dry before application.

The frequency of application depends on the specific product and your skin condition. Always follow the instructions on the product label or your doctor’s recommendations.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While lanolin is generally considered safe for topical use, some individuals may experience side effects. What are the most common adverse reactions to lanolin?

The most frequently reported side effects include:

• Burning or stinging sensation
• Redness
• Irritation
• Allergic reactions (in rare cases)

If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. In some cases, excessive use of lanolin-based products can lead to skin maceration, where the skin becomes overly soft and vulnerable to damage.

Who Should Exercise Caution?

Certain individuals should be cautious when using lanolin-based products:

• Those with known wool allergies
• Individuals with sensitive skin
• People prone to allergic reactions

It’s always advisable to perform a patch test before using a new lanolin product, especially if you have a history of skin sensitivities or allergies.

Lanolin in Combination with Other Skincare Ingredients

Lanolin often works synergistically with other skincare ingredients to enhance its moisturizing and protective properties. What are some common combinations?

Lanolin and Petrolatum

The combination of lanolin and petrolatum creates a powerful occlusive barrier that helps to lock in moisture and protect the skin from environmental stressors. This blend is particularly effective for extremely dry or chapped skin.

Lanolin and Glycerin

Glycerin, a humectant, attracts water to the skin. When combined with lanolin, it creates a moisturizing powerhouse that both draws in and retains moisture, providing long-lasting hydration.

Lanolin and Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage. When combined with lanolin, it creates a nourishing and protective formula that’s especially beneficial for mature or sun-damaged skin.

Lanolin in Natural and Organic Skincare

As consumers become more conscious of the ingredients in their skincare products, lanolin has gained popularity in natural and organic formulations. Why is lanolin considered a natural ingredient?

Lanolin is derived from sheep’s wool through a process that doesn’t harm the animals. It’s a renewable resource and biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly choice. However, it’s important to note that not all lanolin is created equal. High-grade, purified lanolin is preferred for skincare applications to minimize the risk of allergens and contaminants.

Certifications to Look For

When choosing lanolin-based products, look for certifications that ensure quality and purity:

• USP (United States Pharmacopeia) grade
• BP (British Pharmacopoeia) grade
• Hypoallergenic certification
• Organic certifications (for products containing organic lanolin)

Innovations in Lanolin-Based Products

The skincare industry continually evolves, and lanolin-based products are no exception. What are some recent innovations in lanolin formulations?

Micronized Lanolin

Micronized lanolin particles are smaller and can penetrate the skin more effectively, providing enhanced moisturization without the heavy, greasy feel associated with traditional lanolin products.

Lanolin Alternatives for Vegans

For those who prefer plant-based skincare, some companies have developed vegan alternatives that mimic the properties of lanolin. These often include ingredients like jojoba oil, candelilla wax, or synthetic emollients designed to replicate lanolin’s moisturizing effects.

Lanolin in Anti-Aging Formulations

Recent research has explored lanolin’s potential in anti-aging skincare. Some studies suggest that lanolin may help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines when used consistently over time.

As our understanding of skin biology and ingredient efficacy continues to grow, we can expect to see even more innovative uses for lanolin in the future of skincare and medical applications.

Lanolin Topical: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication is used as a moisturizer to treat or prevent dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin and minor skin irritations (such as diaper rash, skin burns from radiation therapy). Emollients are substances that soften and moisturize the skin and decrease itching and flaking. Some products (such as zinc oxide, white petrolatum) are used mostly to protect the skin against irritation (such as from wetness).Dry skin is caused by a loss of water in the upper layer of the skin. Emollients/moisturizers work by forming an oily layer on the top of the skin that traps water in the skin. Petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil and dimethicone are common emollients. Humectants, including glycerin, lecithin, and propylene glycol, draw water into the outer layer of skin. Many products also have ingredients that soften the horny substance (keratin) that holds the top layer of skin cells together (including urea, alpha hydroxy acids such as lactic/citric/glycolic acid, and allantoin). This helps the dead skin cells fall off, helps the skin keep in more water, and leaves the skin feeling smoother and softer.

How to use Lanolin 72 % Topical Ointment

Use this product as directed. Some products require priming before use. Follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Some products need to be shaken before use. Check the label to see if you should shake the bottle well before using. Apply to the affected areas of the skin as needed or as directed on the label or by your doctor. How often you apply the medication will depend on the product and your skin condition. To treat dry hands, you may need to use the product every time you wash your hands, applying it throughout the day.

If you are using this product to help treat diaper rash, clean the diaper area well before use and allow the area to dry before applying the product.

If you are using this product to help treat radiation skin burns, check with radiation personnel to see if your brand can be applied before radiation therapy.

Follow all the directions on the label for proper use. Apply to the skin only. Avoid sensitive areas such as your eyes, inside your mouth/nose, and the vaginal/groin area, unless the label or your doctor directs you otherwise. Check the label for directions about any areas or types of skin where you should not apply the product (such as on the face, any areas of broken/chapped/cut/irritated/scraped skin, or on a recently shaved area of the skin). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Most moisturizers need water to work well. Apply the product after bathing/showering while the skin is still damp. For very dry skin, your doctor may instruct you to soak the area before using the product. Long, hot, or frequent bathing/washing can worsen dry skin.

If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

Most emollients can be used safely and effectively with no side effects. However, burning, stinging, redness, or irritation may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: unusual changes in the skin (such as turning white/soft/soggy from too much wetness), signs of skin infection.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the product; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product: skin cuts/infections/sores.

Some ingredients (such as preservatives, fragrance) may make you more sensitive to the sun. Check the label for any warnings or ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need to take any special precautions when in the sun. Your doctor/pharmacist may suggest that you limit your time in the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.

Some products may worsen acne. If your skin is prone to acne breakouts, look for the word “non-comedogenic” (will not clog pores) on the label. Some products may stain/discolor clothing. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this product.

It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding, especially if you are applying this product to the breast area.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Does Lanolin 72 % Topical Ointment interact with other drugs you are taking?

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Overdose

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Some ways to help prevent dry skin include using lukewarm (not hot) water when bathing, taking baths/showers less often (such as every 1-2 days), keeping baths/showers short, and using a humidifier when the air is very dry.

There are many types of emollient products available. Some contain fragrance or other ingredients that some people may be sensitive to. Emollients are available in different forms such as oils, creams, lotions, or sprays. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist on the product that may be best for you.

If you are using this product on a regular schedule and miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Do not use more product or use it more often than directed to catch up.

Refer to storage information printed on the package. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not store the foam canister near high heat, and do not store or use it near an open flame. Because foam canisters are under pressure, do not puncture or burn the canister.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

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Lanolin oil is a secretion from sheep’s skin. It’s similar to human sebum, an oil secreted by the sebaceous glands that you may notice particularly on your nose.

Unlike sebum, lanolin contains no triglycerides. Lanolin is sometimes referred to as “wool fat,” but the term is misleading because it lacks triglycerides needed to be considered a fat.

The purpose of lanolin is to condition and protect sheep’s wool. This conditioning property is why the substance is now widely used in human cosmetics, skin care, and hair products.

Lanolin oil is extracted by putting sheep’s wool through a centrifuge machine that separates the oil from other chemicals and debris. The process is performed after the sheep is sheared so the extraction of lanolin causes no harm to sheep.

You may already be using products that contain lanolin oil without realizing it. Many medicine cabinet staples including lip balms, lotions, and nipple creams contain the amber-colored substance loved for its moisturizing ability.

Lanolin oil is known as an emollient, which means it helps soothe dry or dehydrated skin.

A 2017 study indicated that lanolin can reduce water lost through the skin by 20 to 30 percent.

Simply put, lanolin is extremely hydrating and has the ability to soften skin to help improve the appearance and the feel of rough, dry, or flaky areas.

Many products that contain lanolin oil also contain humectant ingredients like aloe, honey, or glycerin.

Humectant ingredients actually pull moisture in from the air. Lanolin itself is not a humectant. It can trap water once skin and hair is moist, however.

Lanolin is classified as an emollient and an occlusive moisturizer, which means it has the ability to slow water loss from the skin.

Lanolin for face wrinkles

Many products that are touted for their “anti-aging” benefits contain lanolin oil or lanolin alcohol. This may lead buyers to believe the lanolin oil has the ability to fight fine lines and wrinkles.

While there’s little scientific evidence that this is the case, lanolin can hold twice its weight in water. This can plump skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Lanolin oil for hair

Because of the emollient, moisture-retaining quality of lanolin oil, it can be a powerhouse ingredient in fighting dryness when applied to wet or moist hair. It won’t work when applied to dry hair because there’s no moisture to trap.

Lanolin oil has a waxier texture than other oils designed for hair, and washing with a cleansing shampoo or apple cider vinegar may help to thoroughly remove it from the hair.

Lanolin oil for dry lips

Lanolin oil is effective on the lips for the same reasons it helps treat dry skin and hair.

One 2016 study found that a lanolin cream proved effective in people who were experiencing dry lips as a side effect of chemotherapy.

Lanolin is able to penetrate the lip barrier, instead of other ingredients that deliver moisture only to the top layer of the lip. It’s generally considered safe to use on newborns with chapped lips, however it’s always a good idea to first check with a pediatrician.

Lanolin oil for cracked nipples

The Mayo Clinic recommends lanolin to restore moisture and soothe cracked nipples in people who are breastfeeding.

People who are actively breastfeeding should look for 100 percent pure and refined lanolin. Lanolin that isn’t purified may cause an allergic reaction when ingested by the child.

Lanolin oil can be very effective for people who aren’t allergic to it. But if enough was ingested, it can be poisonous, and its waxy nature can build up in the intestines.

Lanolin oil allergy

Lanolin is thought to be responsible for wool allergies, so people who are allergic to wool may want to avoid it.

Haz-Map classifies lanolin as a “skin sensitizer,” which means it may lead to an allergic reaction when it comes in contact with skin. Lanolin allergies are rare, and one study found that just 1.7 percent of the almost 25,000 allergy-prone people showed signs of a lanolin allergy.

Lanolin oil poisoning

Lanolin oil poisoning can occur in someone who has ingested the substance. People who are using lanolin-based lip balms should be especially careful not to swallow excessive amounts of the product.

Medical emergency

If you or someone you know has ingested lanolin, call 911 as soon as possible and be prepared with their name, birth date, and the name of the product ingested, if possible.

Symptoms of lanolin poisoning can include:

• diarrhea
• rash
• swelling and redness of skin
• vomiting

Symptoms of allergic reactions may include:

• eye, lip, mouth, and throat swelling
• rash
• shortness of breath

Pure lanolin oil and products containing the oil are widely available in stores and online. Check out these products now.

Lanolin oil is a waxy substance derived from sheep. Its emollient, conditioning properties make it an effective ingredient in combating dry skin and hair. It’s also used as a moisturizer for cracked lips or nipples.

If you’re allergic to wool, it’s best to avoid lanolin. Test a small patch of skin before using any product containing lanolin. Lanolin can also be poisonous if ingested.

Lanolin: what is it, what is it good for and what is it used for?

Contents:

➦ What is lanolin

➦ How does lanolin work?

➦ Use of lanolin oil

➦ The best products with lanolin from Phytomarket

➦ Side effects and possible risks

➦ Conclusion

Cosmetic products based on natural ingredients are very popular in the modern world. Lanolin is a prominent member of a class of natural ingredients often seen on the labels of facial and hair care products, including lip balms, lotions, and nipple creams. What is lanolin and how does it work? Answers are provided below.

What is lanolin?

Lanolin (from lat. lana – wool and oleum – oil) – animal wax of yellow or brown-yellow color, obtained by processing sheep skin. Its physical and chemical properties are identical to human sebum. It is often called “wool grease”, but this term is not correct, since lanolin does not contain triglycerides, and therefore is not a fat.

How does lanolin work?

The main tasks of lanolin are protection and conditioning, which made it so popular in the field of cosmetology. Lanolin normalizes the balance of lipids on the surface of the skin, which helps to reduce moisture loss and, as a result, ensures softness and smoothness of the skin. In addition, the beneficial qualities of lanolin include the ability to heal wounds, regenerate, moisturize, nourish dehydrated skin, and smooth out skin roughness and fine wrinkles.

Use of lanolin oil

Due to its emollient, occlusive and moisturizing properties, lanolin oil is widely used for the manufacture of hydrophilic ointments and medical plasters, as well as for the creation of cosmetics in the field of beauty and care.

Lanolin for facial wrinkles

Many “anti-aging” products contain lanolin alcohol and lanolin oil. This composition helps to retain moisture in the skin, which makes the skin elastic, smoothes wrinkles, and gives a natural shine. Also, lanolin reduces the density of creams, providing a more comfortable and pleasant application.

Lanolin hair oil

Emollient and water-retaining lanolin oil is a powerful cosmetic ingredient in the fight against dry hair. It is an ingredient in many hair care products. Lanolin can be used as an independent care product or as a component of shampoos, balms, conditioners, providing nourishment and hydration to damaged hair, reliably protecting it from the harmful effects of the external environment.

Dry lips

In addition to moisturizing dry skin and hair, lanolin oil also has a positive effect on the delicate skin of the lips. Lanolin, unlike other vegetable oils, is able to penetrate and deliver moisture deep into the skin. Lanolin-based balms have been proven to be especially effective for newborns and people with chemo-induced dry lips.

For cracked nipples

Femofit Lanolin Farm cream with lanolin will become an indispensable assistant during lactation and breastfeeding for healing nipples. It penetrates well into the outer layers of the skin, forms a thin lipid barrier, restores the natural water-fat balance of the skin on the nipples, softens and heals cracks, providing comfortable and painless feeding. Pure lanolin without taste will protect the child from an allergic reaction.

The best products with lanolin from Phytomarket

Side effects and possible risks

Side effects of using lanolin oil include:

❌ Poisoning. Ingestion of lanolin oil can cause poisoning. People using lanolin-based lip balms should be extremely careful not to swallow large amounts of the product. Symptoms of poisoning are diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, dizziness.

❌ Allergic reaction. It is worth noting that allergy to lanolin is extremely rare, people with an allergy to wool are more prone to it. An allergic reaction can be manifested by a rash, fever, swelling, redness of the skin, shortness of breath, itching.

Conclusion

Lanolin is a natural wax derived from sheep. Thanks to its softening, moisturizing and regenerating properties, it is widely used in cosmetic products for the care of dry skin and hair. Especially effective for the care of the nipples of lactating women, as well as for eliminating dry lips. This substance is poisonous if swallowed in large quantities and should be used with caution if you are allergic to wool.

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What is lanolin

Lanolin is a fairly popular ingredient used in cosmetics. This is a natural wax of animal origin, which is obtained by refining the fat from sheep’s wool.

Already processed pure anhydrous lanolin has a complex composition, which even today is not yet fully understood.

These are mainly mixtures of wax-like esters (cholesterol, isocholesterol, ergosterol), fatty acids and higher alcohols. Lanolin looks like a thick viscous mass, which in its consistency resembles an ordinary ointment, and, as a rule, does not have a very pleasant smell.

The color of lanolin can vary from a translucent light yellow tint to a dark brown and almost non-translucent tint.

From history

The fat-like substance that forms on sheep’s wool was known many centuries ago, and was widely used by the Romans and Greeks, both for cosmetic and medicinal purposes. Of course, during that period, unrefined fat was used, which contained many harmful substances and other impurities. But even in those days, the development of cosmetology did not stand still, and after some time, wool fat began to undergo special chemical treatment, resulting in the formation of pure lanolin, which got its name from the Latin words lana (wool) and oleum (oil) .

But, despite its unpleasant smell, anhydrous lanolin is widely used in cosmetics, and to this day. And this is not surprising, because lanolin is one of the most effective and most nourishing fats, which contributes to good hydration, softening and nourishing the skin. Also, products that include lanolin can protect the skin from adverse external environmental influences.

Lanolin has excellent moisturizing properties due to its ability to absorb and retain a large amount of moisture. And penetrating deep into the skin, lanolin not only saturates the skin with this moisture, but also prevents its loss for a long time.

The use of lanolin makes the skin soft and supple, and significantly enhances the regeneration of its new cells.

In its composition, lanolin is very close to human sebum, and most often it is used as the basis for nourishing creams, especially for the care of dry and aging skin.

And in the preparation of homemade face creams, a small amount of lanolin promotes good mixing of the fatty phases with water and other aqueous solutions.

Also, lanolin in creams can act as a preservative. Anhydrous lanolin does not dissolve in water, but is able to absorb and retain a large amount of it without losing its viscosity.

But the use of lanolin in its pure form is highly discouraged, as it can clog pores and prevent oxygenation of the skin.

And besides, pure lanolin has a very strong viscosity, and it will be quite problematic to lubricate the skin with it. The disadvantage of lanolin is that it is considered the most allergenic component in cosmetics, capable of causing various redness or rashes on the skin.

But somehow one dermatological analysis was performed on the interaction of the skin with lanolin, in which 1048 patients participated, and only 12 of them developed an allergic reaction.

But it is still advisable, before using cosmetics containing lanolin, to pre-test them on a small area of ​​the skin, for example, on the skin of the hand, on the inside, just above the wrist.