What Is Lanolin In Skincare
Moisturization is the key to healthy and glowing skin. Lack of it can cause your skin to lose hydration, dry out your skin, and make it appear dull, lifeless and flaky. Lanolin is one of the major components in lotions, creams, lip balms, and even hair conditioners. Read on to learn what lanolin is.
What Is Lanolin?
Lanolin, also known as wool wax or wool grease, is a greasy substance that is secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep. Its role is to protect the sheep's wool and the skin from the severe cold climate and other environmental factors. It conditions the sheep's wool to make it smooth and silky and also preserves its natural texture.
This conditioning property of lanolin has led it to the cosmetic industry and is now widely used in skincare and hair care products.
Lanolin has a dual effect. It acts as an occlusive as well as an emollient. It forms a barrier that protects your skin and gets absorbed at the same time. Once it sinks deep into your skin, it can hold 400 times its original weight in water. Hence, it keeps your skin moisturized on the surface and from within.
Which Skin Products Have Lanolin?
A huge number of products can have lanolin in them, including:
- Body lotions
- Moisturizers
- Face cream
- Diaper cream
- Nipple cream
- Sun lotion
- Soap
- Lip balm
- Baby lotion
- Eye care products
- Hemorrhoid medicines
- Medicated shampoos
- Makeup (lipstick, powder, foundation)
- Makeup removers
- Shaving creams
How To Use Lanolin
Lanolin is available in the form of creams, lotions, and ointments. Use it as directed by the manufacturer or consult a doctor. You may also follow these tips:
- Apply a pea-sized amount of the product to the affected area.
- Rub it gently and leave it overnight or as directed by the doctor.
If you are a nursing mother:
- Massage a pea-sized amount of the product onto the entire nipple area.
- Apply it after each feeding.
- You need not wash it off while breastfeeding (consult a doctor for this).
For soothing diaper rash or dermatitis in kids or infants:
- Clean the area well and let it dry thoroughly.
- Apply the product to the diaper area.
- Wait for a few minutes before you put on the diaper.
- Do this after each diaper change.
Before using lanolin, read all instructions on the product label and do a patch test before applying it.
How Often Can You Use Lanolin?
Lanolin oil in products is suitable for daily use. However, it is better for individuals with oily and acne-prone skin to avoid lanolin oils. It can be used in both AM and PM regimen. You can easily use lanolin oils alongside other moisturizing products.
Pregnancy And Lactation
Use lanolin with caution during pregnancy if benefits outweigh risks. Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of a health professional before using.
What Are The Potential Side Effects Of Lanolin?
Lanolin may not suit all skin types and may cause some side effects. Let’s take a look.
1. Hypersensitivity Reaction
Though it's rare, you can be allergic to lanolin. Individuals who are allergic to wool can also be hypersensitive to lanolin products.
2. May Cause Lanolin Poisoning
Lanolin poisoning can happen if someone ingests a considerable amount. Be cautious when using lip balms or lip products containing lanolin. Keep lanolin away from young children who might accidentally swallow a dangerous quantity.
3. A rare sign of skin infection
Lanolin oil has been shown to cause skin infections in a few cases. It can result in skin burns, stinging, redness and irritation. Sometimes, lanolin can cause unusual sogginess or wetness on your dermal layers. It may cause the skin to turn white and incredibly fragile.
4. May Cause Breakouts
Lanolin oil is extremely greasy and is not suitable for use if you have oily skin. Lanolin creates a film over the dermal layer, which prevents your skin from breathing and blocks the sebaceous glands from sebum drainage. Thus, lanolin oil can clog your pores and aggravate acne and breakouts on your skin. Avoid lanolin if you have oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.
Lanolin Alternatives
You may go for ingredients like:
- Mineral oil
- Paraffin
- Petroleum jelly
These ingredients form a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss. Also, they are hypoallergenic.
If you are looking for natural moisturizers, opt for:
- Beeswax or vegetable waxes
- Hydrogenated plant oils
- Shea or cocoa butters
Takeaway
Lanolin is a natural moisturizing wax that's extracted from sheep's wool. It's used in a wide array of skincare products, such as creams, lotions, and ointments. While many people swear by the moisturizing benefits of lanolin, others may have negative reactions.
If you're unsure about whether lanolin is safe for you to try, ask a dermatologist or pharmacist. When using new products, it's always best to start with a small area of application to determine whether you have sensitivity to it.
