Lanolin is a waxy substance that sheep naturally produce to protect their wool.
It is also widely promoted as a natural remedy for sore nipples due to breastfeeding.
The lanolin in the products you buy comes from sheep raised for their wool.
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Lanolin also goes by the names wool grease, wool yolk, and wool wax.
Benefits and Uses of Lanolin
Lanolin is classified as anocclusivemoisturizer.
This means it works by reducing water loss from theskin, similar to petroleum jelly.
In skincare products, there’s no hard evidence showing lanolin is better than synthetic waxes.
If you like using natural products, though, you may prefer lanolin over synthetics.
Lanolin is in a wide variety of over-the-counter (OTC) products.
Many healthcare providers recommend lanolin creams to ease nipple pain frombreastfeeding.
A big benefit is that it’s generally considered safe for your baby to ingest small amounts of lanolin.
It’s recommended that you use it at least 10 minutes before you roll breastfeeding.
But unlike other products, you don’t need to wipe it off.
It’s also safe to give your babybreastmilkexpressed while lanolin is on your nipples.
(Again, wait about 10 minutes after tool before you begin pumping.)
Research into lanolin fornipple painhas been mixed.
However, other research on its effectiveness has been lackluster.
One small study examined the effects of lanolin on the lips of people undergoing chemotherapy.
They found that 30% fewer patients reported a symptom of dry lips after using lanolin consistently.
That said, there is not much scientific evidence to support lanolin’s effects on wrinkles or anti-aging.
Why do people avoid lanolin?
Some people are allergic to lanolin, though it’s rare.
Research suggests fewer than 7% of people with contact dermatitis are allergic to lanolin.
Even if you’re not allergic, lanolin can be irritating for some people.
Lanolin Poisoning
Keep lanolin away from young children who might accidentally swallow a dangerous quantity.
This can result in lanolin poisoning.
Call the National Poison Control Help Hotline (1-800-222-1222) if you suspect possible lanolin poisoning.
Symptoms are usually mild and may include:
If severe symptoms develop, call 911.
What are the disadvantages of lanolin?
You shouldn’t ingest lanolin.
The substance is similar to wax, and eating large amounts of lanolin can cause intestinal blockage.
How Lanolin Products Are Made
The skin of mammals has natural oils that are produced bysebaceousglands.
A centrifuge then isolates the lanolin.
Further processing includes bleaching, deodorizing, and drying.
This does not harm the animal.
It’s less allergenic than raw lanolin, making it more appealing for widespread use.
International lanolin products may vary in their concentration and purity.
Structure and Composition
Lanolin differs slightly from human sebum because it does not contain anytriglycerides.
On a molecular level, the majority of lanolin is made up of alcohols and acids.
These compounds combine to form structures known as esters, diesters, and high-molecular-weight hydroxy esters.
That’s part of what keeps the wool soft and fluffy.
Lanolin is sometimes called “wool fat.”
A more accurate term is “wool wax.”
Waxes and fats are similar but not the same.
Waxes are less greasy, harder, and have a higher melting temperature.
“Firm” mustache creams frequently contain lanolin because of this consistency.
Summary
Lanolin is a natural moisturizing wax that’s extracted from sheep’s wool.
It’s often recommended for nipples that are sore from breastfeeding.
Eating a lot of lanolin can cause lanolin poisoning.
If you’re allergic to wool, you may also be allergic to lanolin.
Lanolin is extracted from wool and processed into Lansinoh, which is a purer form.
In addition to moisturizing, it’s good for lubrication, polishing, and waterproofing.
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