Wool grease

Wool grease, also known as lanolin, is a wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of wool-bearing animals, most notably sheep. Composed of sterol esters, it is used by sheep to waterproof and protect their wool. In humans, it is often used in cosmetics and skincare products due to its emollient properties.

Composition

Wool grease is a complex mixture of various lipids, including cholesterol, lanosterol, agnosterol, and a range of fatty acids. It also contains trace amounts of squalene, a compound found in human sebum. The exact composition can vary depending on the breed of sheep and their diet.

Extraction

The extraction of wool grease is a by-product of the wool-washing process. After shearing, the wool is washed in hot water, which causes the grease to melt and separate from the wool. The grease is then skimmed off the surface of the water and purified to produce lanolin.

Uses

Due to its moisturizing and protective properties, wool grease is widely used in the cosmetics industry. It is a common ingredient in lip balms, lotions, and creams. It is also used in the pharmaceutical industry as an ointment base and in the textile industry as a wool softener.

Safety

While generally considered safe for topical use, some people may experience allergic reactions to wool grease, such as skin rashes or contact dermatitis. It is recommended to perform a patch test before using products containing wool grease.

See Also

• Sheep
• Wool
• Lanolin
• Cosmetics
• Pharmaceuticals

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