Lanolinum

Other names: Lanolin, Adeps Lanae Anhydrite, sheepskin fat

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Lanolin, also known as lanolinum, adeps lanae anhydrite or sheepskin fat, is a product that is extracted from sheep's wool. It is actually a kind of wax that sheep produce to protect their skin and wool. Lanolin is a yellow, oily material that has a specific smell. There are several types of lanolin, such as lanolin anhydride, which is difficult to solubilise in water, and lanolinum cum aqua, which forms a dispersion in water. It is an ingredient often found in cosmetics and pharmaceutical preparations.

The cosmetics industry rates lanolin very positively for its ability to moisturise the skin and hair. It is found in a wide range of cosmetic products, from creams, shampoos, conditioners to various skin care products such as lip balms and soaps. Lanolin is also popular in the pharmaceutical industry, where it is used as an ingredient in ointments and creams to treat various skin conditions such as burns, blisters, dermatitis, but it is also useful in the treatment of dry eyes. Lanolin is also a valuable ingredient in the food industry where it is used as a food additive. It can also be found in some industrial products such as lubricants.