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Lanolin has been known for centuries as a nourishing substance. Lanolin also has healing properties, which makes it a popular ingredient in many cosmetics (creams, lotions) and is often used in beauty salons. The most important properties of lanolin include the protective, moisturizing and smoothing functions of the skin.
Properties of lanolin
Lanolin it is obtained from sheep fat, which is thickly deposited on their wool. It has a heavy consistency (like wax) and comes in shades of yellow and brown. Lanolin it also has a characteristic smell. Lanolin it is only obtained in the winter months when sheep develop a protective fat layer. After the sheep are sheared, cleaned and rendered, the lanolin is dried for about two weeks. The finished substance has a hard consistency, which manufacturers of care preparations modify with other cosmetic ingredients. Most often it is mixed with waxes, oils and fats. Lanolin is divided into two types – clean and hydrated. Lanolin in its pure form, it is most widely used in the cosmetics sector for the production of such preparations as creams, ointments and lotions. Lanolin the second type (the composition of which is 1/4 water) is mainly used in the refinement of e.g. wood. Lanolin is one of the most physically and chemically modified cosmetic raw materials. This is happening to neutralize, inter alia, its characteristic smell, which is crucial for its subsequent use.
The use of lanolin in cosmetics and other industries
Lanolin has long been widely used in various industries, ranging from cosmetics to ship maintenance. Lanolin is primarily known for its protective and greasing properties, which is why cosmetic manufacturers are so eager to add it to preparations for various applications. Due to its softening properties, this substance is often added to washing powders and its derivatives. Lanolin it is also used in medicinal products as the main component of dressings, as well as ointments and creams that accelerate the healing of wounds and epidermis damage. Due to the thick protective layer it creates on the skin, it is also successfully used in the care of atopic skin. It is also used in the production of color cosmetics. Lanolin very rarely causes allergic reactions, usually if they do occur, they are caused by the excipients contained in the preparation containing lanolin as the main ingredient. It is also believed that detergents used in the initial treatment of sheep’s wool may be responsible for any allergies. Numerous studies have shown that lanolin most often causes allergic reactions in pharmaceutical products, and less frequently in cosmetics. It is also recommended for people struggling with psoriasis and excessive skin dryness, it also works as an emulsifier in the cold. Interestingly, lanolin is a recognized measure for, inter alia, dissolving perfumes and antiseptics, it is also often used as a base in the production of soaps and bath lotions. Lanolin it is also used in hair care – when added as an ingredient in shampoos, it enhances the shine of the hair.
At Medonet Market you will find Teddy Bear – a natural soap with lanolin for children from the first day of life. This soap is also available in a vegan version.
Lanolin for warts in breastfeeding women
Due to its delicacy, lanolin it is especially recommended in everyday care for pregnant and lactating women. The most common use lanolin for nursing mothers, it is applied directly to the nipples, which has a soothing and protective effect in the case of hypersensitive, often cracking nipples.