What is lanolin?

Lanolin is a type of natural wax that is present in the wool of sheep. This substance, secreted by their sebaceous glands, helps to protect the delicate skin of sheep from the harshness of the weather. It acts by waterproofing the fibers and thereby preventing moisture from accumulating between them.

Depending on the breed, climatic conditions, diet of the sheep, and washing method, the specific characteristics of lanolin can vary slightly, but in all cases, it is a natural-origin wax, composed of esters of steroidal and aliphatic alcohols with fatty acids. At room temperature, it is a semi-solid with a greasy texture, yellow color, and characteristic mild odor. Its melting point is between 36 °C and 41.5 °C.

How is lanolin obtained?

As we mentioned, lanolin is found in the fibers of sheep wool. Once the sheep are sheared, the wool undergoes a washing process in which the protective wax is separated from the wool. Subsequently, the wax is refined to remove impurities and degradation products, and to improve its odor and color. The result is a uniform and stable product, which has the ability to mimic the lipids of human skin and can be easily absorbed by it.

Uses and applications of lanolin

The list of uses and applications for lanolin seems endless. Due to its regenerative and protective properties, it is used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals for treating cracked nipples and heels, in formulating lip balms, for dry cuticles and sunburn, in shaving cuts, diaper rashes, scraped knees, acne scars… and more!

The applications of lanolin also extend to other sectors of industrial production. For example, it is used to prevent rust formation on metals, to protect pipes, tanks, and others from corrosion, to grease parts of moving equipment and machinery and thus reduce wear, etc.

In summary, due to its characteristics and great compatibility with additives, lanolin is a versatile and economical input with countless applications in various fields.