Lanolin

Question 1

What is lanolin?

Answer 1

a natural product obtained from the fleece of sheep

(sebum is extracted from sheep’s wool, cleaned, and refined)

used in a variety of topical therapeutic and cosmetic preparations.

Question 2

What is lanolin made of?

Answer 2

complex mixture mainly composed of high molecular weight esters (>80%), along with aliphatic alcohols, fatty acids, sterols, and hydrocarbons.

Free alcohols are considered the main sensitisers in lanolin.

Question 3

Where is lanolin found?

Answer 3

1. Pharmaceuticals
   - Steroid-containing creams / ointments
   - Haemorrhoidal preparations
   - Medicated shampoos
   - Veterinary products
   - Liniments
2. Cosmetics
   - Hand creams
   - Emollients and moisturisers
   - Barrier creams
   - Self-tanners
   - Sunscreens
   - Glossy lipsticks
   - Makeup removers and cleansers
   - Foundations/powders/concealer
   - Eye makeup
   - Hairspray
   - Shaving creams
   - Baby oils, diaper / nappy lotions
3. Industrial
   - Printing ink (helps to prevent crystallisation)
   - Furniture and shoe polishers
   - Textile finishers
   - Lubricants, cutting fluids
   - Paper
   - Leather (enhances pliability and water resistance)

Question 4

How is Lanolin patch tested?

Answer 4

50% Amerchol L101 in petrolatum