Lanolin

Lanolin (from the Latin lāna, 'wool', and oleum, 'oil'), also called wool wax or wool grease, is a wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of wool-bearing animals. Lanolin used by humans comes from domestic sheep breeds that are raised specifically for their wool.

History

Historically, many pharmacopoeias have referred to lanolin as wool fat (adeps lanae); however, as lanolin lacks glycerides (glycerol esters), it is not a true fat. Lanolin primarily consists of sterol esters instead. Lanolin's waterproofing property aids sheep in shedding water from their coats. Certain breeds of sheep produce large amounts of lanolin.

Composition

Lanolin's composition varies widely depending on the breed of sheep, the animal's age, and the season of the year. The main components are long-chain waxy esters (approximately 97% by weight), lanolin alcohols, lanolin acids, and lanolin hydrocarbons.

Uses

Lanolin and its many derivatives are used extensively in both the personal care (skin care, hair care) and health care sectors such as topical liniments. Lanolin is also found in lip balm, skin care products and cosmetics. In this regard, it is widely referred to as "wool fat" or "wool wax".

Safety

An estimated 1.7% of the general population is allergic to lanolin, but this figure rises to as much as 6.6% among those who use cosmetics and skincare products that contain the substance.

See also

• Wool
• Sebaceous gland
• Cosmetics
• Skin care

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