Lanolin is a natural, waxy substance derived from sheep’s wool. It acts as an emollient, moisturiser, and skin protectant, making it a popular ingredient in skincare, lip balms, baby products, and hair care recipes. It closely resembles the skin’s natural oils and helps lock in moisture, soothe dry skin, and protect against harsh environmental conditions.
Lanolin
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep in an airtight container to prevent oxidation. Shelf life: 2-3 years if stored properly.
Refined Lanolin: Processed to remove impurities and allergens, making it safer for sensitive skin.
Unrefined Lanolin: More natural but may contain wool impurities and allergens.
Not essential, but highly beneficial for deep hydration, skin repair, and barrier protection in skincare and hair care products.
Thick, semi-solid, and waxy texture
Greasy feel but highly absorbent
Can be sticky at first but softens upon application
Unrefined lanolin smells heavy, oily, sort of musty. Refined lanolin doesn’t smell like anything!
36-42°C (97-108°F)
Insoluble in water
Soluble in oils, waxes, and some alcohols
Deeply moisturises dry and cracked skin
Forms a protective barrier to lock in hydration
Soothes irritated and inflamed skin
Softens and conditions rough or chapped lips
Enhances the absorption of other active ingredients
Repairs damaged hair and reduces frizz
pH of around 6.0 to 7.0, which is close to the skin’s natural pH, making it suitable for most skin types.
Lanolin has a slower absorption rate due to its thick, waxy consistency. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, helping to lock in moisture but may feel heavier and more occlusive than lighter oils. It’s excellent for providing long-lasting hydration.
Lip Balms & Healing Ointments: 5-20%
Lotions & Creams: 2-10%
Hair Conditioners & Masks: 1-5%
Baby Care Products: 5-15%
Healing Balms & Salves: 10-30%
Golden yellow to pale yellow semi-solid wax (refined lanolin is lighter in colour).
✅ Highly moisturising & skin-softening
✅ Forms a breathable protective barrier
✅ Natural & biocompatible (similar to human skin oils)
✅ Helps heal cracked skin & chapped lips
✅ Versatile for skincare, baby care, and hair products
❌ Greasy & sticky texture (requires blending with lighter oils for smooth application)
❌ Potential allergen for people sensitive to wool
❌ Not vegan (animal-derived from sheep’s wool)
❌ Distinct scent that may require masking with essential oils
Shea Butter: Rich and moisturising with a softer texture.
Beeswax: Helps create a protective barrier but is less hydrating.
Cocoa Butter: Provides moisture and a smooth texture.
Jojoba Oil: Mimics skin’s natural oils but is lighter than lanolin.
Warm gently to melt before mixing into your recipe.
Blend with lighter carrier oils (e.g., jojoba, almond, or argan oil) to reduce stickiness.
Use in small amounts in lotions to prevent excessive greasiness.
Combine with waxes and butters to create rich balms and salves.
For extra dry skin: Mix lanolin with coconut oil and apply as a deep moisturiser.
For cracked heels & hands: Use pure lanolin overnight for intense hydration.
For long-lasting lip balm: Blend with beeswax and almond oil for a smooth, protective barrier.
For hair frizz control: Apply a tiny amount to the ends of dry hair.
100g-250g