Description
Lanolin oil is a secretion from sheep’s skin. It is similar to human sebum, an oil secreted by the sebaceous glands. Unlike sebum, lanolin contains no triglycerides. The purpose of lanolin is to condition and protect sheep’s wool. This conditioning property is why the substance is widely used in human cosmetics, skincare, and hair products.
Chemical Properties
Lanolin oil is chemically similar to lanolin anhydrous but contains additional lower molecular weight (MW) esters and branched-chain hydroxy compounds. The specific composition varies depending on the solvent used for crystallisation, such as isopropanol, which yields an average molecular weight of 360. In contrast, lanolin wax is the solid form obtained during separation. This clear, amber-colored oil shares the well-known properties of lanolin anhydrous while being conveniently fluid at room temperature. Therefore, it is commonly used as an emulsifying agent with a high spreading coefficient and excellent emollient capabilities. Furthermore, it readily dissolves in mineral and vegetable oils, ensuring complete solubility without precipitation.
Production Methods
Lanolin oil is extracted by putting sheep’s wool through a centrifuge machine that separates the oil from other chemicals and debris. The process is performed after the sheep is sheared, so the extraction of lanolin causes no harm to sheep.
benefits
Lanolin is an exceptional moisturizer that will deeply penetrate dehydrated skin when combined with humectants like honey or glycerin. Lanolin cream protects humectants from evaporating, which means skin will stay protected while it soaks up the benefits.
Even though lanolin oil itself is not an anti-aging agent, it has similar qualities. Lanolin oil helps retain the weight of water, which helps skin stay plump, supple, and youthful.
Lanolin oil is widely used in lip balms. Unlike other moisturizing ingredients, lanolin oil can be applied directly to the lips, making it a choice for lip balms and scrubs. Plus, lanolin cream benefits cracked skin or sore nipples in nursing moms.
Thanks to lanolin’s hydrating properties, this wool oil does wonders on dry and frizzy hair. Use lanolin oil in conjunction with a clarifying shampoo or conditioner to get the most out of this natural conditioner. It is important to note that lanolin oil should be used in moderation and only on porous hair.
In fact, shearing the sheep for lanolin oil also helps the sheep combat parasites and diseases.
