lanolin

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

• Moisturizing Effect: lanolin has a high affinity for water, allowing it to absorb and retain moisture from the environment and the underlying skin layers. When applied to the skin, it forms a semi-occlusive barrier, allowing some air and water vapor to pass through while preventing excessive water loss. 
• Skin Protection: The barrier formed by lanolin also protects the skin from environmental factors, such as harsh weather conditions, wind, and pollution, which can cause dryness and irritation. 
• Emollient Properties: lanolin’s emollient properties contribute to its ability to soften and soothe the skin. It can help smooth rough patches and alleviate dry, chapped skin. 
• Enhanced Penetration of Active Ingredients: In cosmetic formulations, lanolin is often used to enhance the penetration of other active compounds into the skin. It can act as a vehicle to deliver therapeutic agents more profound into the epidermis. 

Spectrum of activity: 

lanolin’s spectrum of activity is primarily focused on its moisturizing and skin-protective properties. It especially benefits individuals with dry, rough, or chapped skin.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency defined 

None 

Black Box Warning

Black box warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindications/caution: 

Contraindications: 

• lanolin Allergy: Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to lanolin. Allergic reactions to lanolin can manifest as skin irritation, redness, itching, or rash.  
• Open Wounds or Broken Skin: lanolin should not be applied to open wounds, cuts, or areas of broken skin. Using lanolin on such areas may irritate and delay the natural healing process. 
• Acne-Prone Skin: People with acne-prone or oily skin may want to avoid using lanolin-containing products on their face, as lanolin can be comedogenic for some individuals. Comedogenic substances have the potential to clog pores and worsen acne. 
• Eczema or Dermatitis: While lanolin can benefit many people with dry skin, it may exacerbate symptoms in individuals with eczema or dermatitis. It is best to consult a dermatologist before using lanolin products for those with these skin conditions. 

Caution: 

• Allergic Reactions: lanolin can cause allergic reactions in some people, especially those with a known sensitivity to wool or wool alcohols. Allergic reactions to lanolin may present as skin irritation, redness, itching, rash, or hives.  
• Comedogenicity: lanolin has the potential to be comedogenic, meaning it may clog pores and lead to the formation of blackheads or acne for specific individuals.  
• Contaminants: lanolin is a natural substance obtained from sheep’s wool, and its purity can vary depending on the manufacturing process.

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: There was no evidence of risk to the foetus in animal studies and insufficient studies on pregnant women. 

Pregnancy category: C 

Lactation: Excretion of the drug in human breast milk is unknown 

Pregnancy category: 

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

lanolin is a natural substance derived from the sebaceous glands of sheep’s wool. It has been used for centuries for its emollient and moisturizing properties in various skincare and cosmetic products.  

• Emollient and Moisturizing Properties: lanolin has a high affinity for water, allowing it to absorb and retain moisture. Applying it to the skin forms a protective, semi-occlusive barrier that helps prevent water loss and hydrate the skin. This emollient effect helps to soften and soothe dry, rough, or chapped skin. 
• Skin Barrier Function: lanolin acts as a natural barrier on the skin’s surface, protecting it from environmental factors such as harsh weather conditions, wind, and pollution. The barrier created by lanolin aids in maintaining the skin’s integrity and preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). 
• Enhanced Penetration of Active Ingredients: In cosmetic formulations, lanolin is often used to enhance the penetration of other active compounds into the skin. It can act as a vehicle to deliver therapeutic agents deeper into the epidermis, improving the efficacy of certain products. 
• Hypoallergenic Properties: lanolin is generally considered hypoallergenic, meaning it is less likely to cause allergic reactions than other substances.  
• Non-Comedogenic: lanolin is non-comedogenic for many individuals, making it less likely to clog pores and cause acne.  
• Healing and Soothing Properties: lanolin has mild healing and soothing properties, making it suitable for minor cuts, abrasions, and cracked skin. It can provide relief and support the natural healing process.

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

When applied topically to the skin, lanolin is absorbed through the skin’s outermost layer (stratum corneum). Lanolin’s absorption into the skin provides moisturizing and emollient properties, creating a protective barrier and preventing water loss. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed through the skin, lanolin remains localized in the epidermal and dermal layers. It does not undergo systemic distribution in the body like orally administered drugs. 

Metabolism 

lanolin is not metabolized within the body, as it is not ingested or processed by internal organs like the liver or kidneys. Its actions are primarily limited to the site of application on the skin. 

Elimination and Excretion 

Since lanolin is not metabolized, it is not excreted through the usual routes of drug elimination, such as urine or feces. Any remaining lanolin on the skin will eventually be lost through normal desquamation (shedding) of dead skin cells. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

Topical Application: 

lanolin is available in various forms, including creams, ointments, lotions, and balms. To apply lanolin topically, follow these steps: 

• Cleanse the area of the skin where you want to apply the lanolin. 
• Take a small amount of lanolin and gently rub it into the skin using clean hands or a soft applicator. 
• Massage the lanolin into the skin until it is absorbed. 
• For specific uses, such as soothing dry or cracked nipples during breastfeeding, apply a thin layer of lanolin to the affected area as needed. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: lanolin 

Why do we use lanolin? 

lanolin, a natural substance derived from sheep’s wool, is widely used in various skincare and cosmetic products due to its emollient and moisturizing properties. Here are some common uses of lanolin: 

• Moisturizer: lanolin is a powerful emollient that helps to hydrate and soften the skin. It is commonly used in creams, lotions, and balms to moisturize dry and rough skin, especially on areas like hands, elbows, and feet. 
• Lip Care: lanolin is often an ingredient in lip balms and chapsticks due to its ability to soothe and protect dry, chapped lips. It forms a protective barrier on the lips, preventing moisture loss and promoting healing. 
• Nipple Cream: lanolin-based nipple creams are widely used by breastfeeding mothers to soothe and alleviate sore or cracked nipples during breastfeeding. The emollient properties of lanolin help moisturize and protect the sensitive skin around the nipples. 
• Diaper Rash Prevention: lanolin can be used as a protective barrier on a baby’s skin to prevent and alleviate diaper rash. It helps to create a protective layer on the skin, reducing friction and irritation from wet diapers. 
• Skincare Products: lanolin is often incorporated into various skincare products, such as body lotions, hand creams, and facial moisturizers, to improve skin hydration and promote a smoother texture. 
• Wound Healing: lanolin’s moisturizing and soothing properties make it helpful in promoting healing of minor cuts, abrasions, and skin irritations. 
• Hair Care: lanolin is sometimes found in hair products like shampoos and conditioners, which can help improve hair texture and add moisture to dry or damaged hair.