MitoSkin

Longevity Lotion

Sun Protecting

Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

THE INGRIDIENT BELOW IS NOT USED IN MITOSKIN FORMULATION UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE

Ingredient
Lanolin

Lanolin

Summary

Lanolin is a natural cosmetic ingredient derived from sheep's wool that is widely used in skincare and haircare products. It is a highly effective emollient that helps to moisturize and protect the skin, while also providing a barrier against environmental stressors. Lanolin is also rich in vitamins and minerals that nourish and strengthen the hair, making it a popular ingredient in haircare products. Its unique properties make it a versatile ingredient that is suitable for a wide range of cosmetic formulations. However, it is important to note that lanolin may cause allergic reactions in some individuals, and should be avoided by those with wool allergies. Overall, lanolin is a valuable ingredient in the cosmetic industry that offers numerous benefits for both skin and hair.

INCI Name and Common References

INCI Name: Lanolin Common Terms: Wool wax, wool grease Nicknames: None

Function

Lanolin is a natural ingredient derived from sheep's wool that is commonly used in cosmetic formulations as an emollient and moisturizer. It helps to soften and soothe the skin, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products such as lotions, creams, and lip balms. Lanolin also has occlusive properties, which means it forms a protective barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss and keep the skin hydrated. Additionally, it can improve the texture and appearance of the skin by smoothing out rough patches and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Overall, lanolin is a versatile ingredient that plays an important role in many cosmetic formulations.

Science

Lanolin is a waxy substance that is derived from the sebaceous glands of sheep. It is composed of a complex mixture of esters, alcohols, and fatty acids. The physical properties of lanolin make it an effective ingredient in many cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. Lanolin has a high affinity for water, which allows it to act as a natural emollient and moisturizer. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin hydrated. Additionally, lanolin has a high melting point and is insoluble in water, which makes it an effective ingredient in lip balms and other products that require a solid consistency. Lanolin also has antimicrobial properties, which make it useful in wound healing and other medical applications. It has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can help prevent infections. Overall, the physical properties of lanolin make it a versatile and effective ingredient in a wide range of products.

Benefits

1. Deeply moisturizes and hydrates the skin. 2. Helps to soothe and heal dry, cracked, or irritated skin. 3. Forms a protective barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss. 4. Improves the texture and appearance of the skin by smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. 5. Contains natural emollients that soften and nourish the skin. 6. Can be used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. 7. Non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types. 8. Helps to restore the skin's natural pH balance. 9. Contains antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental damage. 10. Can be used as a lip balm to moisturize and protect the lips.

Negatives

Lanolin is a natural wax that is derived from sheep's wool. It is commonly used in skincare products as a moisturizer and emollient. While lanolin is generally considered safe for use, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be considered. Side Effects: - Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to lanolin, which can cause skin irritation, redness, itching, and swelling. - Acne: Lanolin is a heavy and occlusive ingredient that can clog pores and cause acne breakouts. - Contamination: Lanolin can be contaminated with pesticides, heavy metals, and other harmful substances if the sheep have been exposed to them. Sensitivities: - Veganism: Lanolin is derived from sheep's wool, which may not be suitable for vegans or those who prefer to avoid animal-derived ingredients. - Ethical concerns: Some people may have ethical concerns about the treatment of sheep and the use of their wool for cosmetic purposes. Interactions: - Petroleum-based products: Lanolin should not be used with petroleum-based products, as they can break down the lanolin and reduce its effectiveness. - Retinoids: Lanolin should not be used with retinoids, as they can increase the risk of skin irritation and sensitivity. - Other sensitizing ingredients: Lanolin should not be used with other sensitizing ingredients, such as fragrances or essential oils, as they can increase the risk of allergic reactions and skin irritation. Overall, lanolin is a safe and effective ingredient for most people, but it is important to be aware of potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions before using it. If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Source

Lanolin is a natural ingredient that originates from sheep's wool. It is a wax-like substance that is secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep and is used in various cosmetic and skincare products. Lanolin is derived from the wool of sheep through a process called scouring, which involves washing the wool with hot water and soap to remove impurities. The lanolin is then extracted from the wool using a centrifuge and is further refined to remove any remaining impurities. The final product is a pure, white, odorless, and hypoallergenic substance that is used in various skincare products such as moisturizers, lip balms, and baby creams.

Safety

Lanolin has a relatively low safety rating score according to the EWG Skin Deep database, with a score of 1-2 out of 10 (with 10 being the most hazardous). This is due to concerns about potential contamination with pesticides and other harmful chemicals, as well as the potential for skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. However, other sources such as the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel have deemed lanolin to be safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products at concentrations up to 10%. Overall, while there are some potential safety concerns associated with lanolin, it is generally considered to be a safe and effective ingredient in skincare products.

Sustainability

Lanolin is a natural wax-like substance that is derived from the wool of sheep. It is commonly used in various cosmetic and skincare products due to its moisturizing and emollient properties. However, the production of lanolin can have both positive and negative environmental impacts. On the positive side, lanolin is a renewable resource that is obtained from sheep wool, which is a byproduct of the wool industry. This means that the production of lanolin does not require the slaughter of animals, and it helps to reduce waste in the wool industry. Additionally, lanolin is biodegradable, which means that it does not contribute to environmental pollution. However, the production of lanolin can also have negative environmental impacts. Sheep farming can contribute to deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution if not managed properly. Additionally, the use of pesticides and fertilizers in sheep farming can have harmful effects on the environment and wildlife. In terms of ethical sourcing practices, it is important to ensure that the lanolin used in cosmetic and skincare products is obtained from ethically sourced sheep farms. This means that the sheep are treated humanely, and their welfare is prioritized. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the lanolin is obtained through sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Overall, while the production of lanolin can have both positive and negative environmental impacts, it is important to prioritize ethical sourcing practices to ensure that the production of lanolin is sustainable and does not harm the environment or animals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lanolin is a versatile ingredient that is commonly used in skincare and cosmetic products due to its emollient and moisturizing properties. It is derived from sheep's wool and is a natural and sustainable source. While it has many benefits for the skin, such as improving hydration and reducing inflammation, it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Additionally, there are concerns about the ethical treatment of sheep during the lanolin extraction process. Overall, lanolin is a safe and effective ingredient when used properly and sourced responsibly.

Leave a Message

Chronic skin issues? Contact us for holistic advice.

powerhouse@mitoskin.org

Copyright 2023 MITOSKIN LLC