We sell a lot of interesting and unique compounds here at Make Your Own Buzz. One of these is lanolin oil, the origin, and uses of which may surprise you.

If you’ve only ever dealt with lanolin oil as an obscure ingredient added in somewhere deep in the ingredients list, get ready for some interesting facts concerning this unique, highly useful natural wax ester.

1.It comes from sheep!

Contrary to popular belief, lanolin, which is sometimes called “wool fat” does not actually come from a sheep’s wool. It does, however, come from the sheep. Their skin naturally produces it, and it helps both to condition and protect the sheep’s skin and their wool.

It is, however, present in wool, which may be a part of the reason that it has been referred to as wool fat (despite the fact that it isn’t actually a fat - see number 11).

2.It keeps a sheep’s wool soft

Sheep’s wool may be dense and protective, but it still has to stand up to the elements. The lanolin produced naturally in the sheep’s skin helps to naturally protect, hydrate, and reinforce their wool, affording the wool better protection against the environment. This works much like how a hair conditioner does - in fact, lanolin is sometimes included as an ingredient in some conditioners for this very reason.

3.It’s very similar to your skin’s own natural sebum (but not entirely)

Sheep produce lanolin in their skin, and humans produce sebum. Our sebum does for our skin, generally, what lanolin does for a sheep’s skin and hair. In function they are similar, but in chemistry, they are not the same.

While lanolin can be used as an emollient and humectant (see below) it lacks the triglycerides that are present in sebum. Nonetheless, it can be used as a polishing agent, a lubricant, and a waterproofing additive, in addition to the uses specified above.

4.It is typically extracted using a centrifuge

One of the great things about lanolin is that it can be harvested sustainably and harvesting it does not harm the sheep from which it comes. First, the sheep are shorn, and then their wool is put into a centrifuge. This separates the wool fibers from the lanolin they contain, as well as the other components in the mix. It also helps to remove debris from the mix.

5.Its unique properties make it suitable for beard or mustache waxes

Although lanolin itself is very soft and malleable and has a low melting point, it is a solid at room temperature. For this reason, lanolin is sometimes included as an ingredient in beard waxes, conditioners, and sculpting agents. Not only does it help facial hair maintain its shape, but it also conditions and strengthens the hair!

6.Lanolin may be useful as an ingredient in hair conditioners

Because lanolin’s purpose in nature is to protect a sheep’s wool, for some people it might also be useful for locking in moisture. Therefore, some hair conditioners and other treatments contain lanolin. One thing should be noted; its purpose is to lock in moisture, so lanolin-bearing products are best applied to damp hair.

7.It’s a powerful emollient and humectant

Lanolin oil and products that contain it may be effective at softening the skin, making it a powerful emollient. It is also effectively waterproof, so it’s excellent at preventing moisture loss through the skin and hair. Some users also find that lanolin can help with chapped and cracked skin, softening it and soothing irritation.

8.It is a special type of moisturizer known as an occlusive moisturizer

Lanolin oil is not simply an effective humectant. It is a special type of moisturizer known as an occlusive moisturizer. Occlusive moisturizers don’t just lock moisture in; they help prevent water loss from the skin, in that capacity helping to improve skin barrier function. Some studies have suggested that lanolin may be able to reduce water loss through the skin by more than 20%.

9.Lanolin may be able to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Because lanolin has properties similar to sebum, some people find that it is restorative to their skin. Some skin creams and compounds contain it and claim that it may be effective at reducing fine lines and wrinkles, making the skin look and feel more youthful.

10.Some people have lanolin allergies

While lanolin oil has been widely used in hair care and skincare products, some people are allergic to it. It can cause reactions such as itching and redness, and in rare cases, more severe symptoms. Therefore, you should also proceed with caution before handling or using lanolin or any product containing lanolin.

Another interesting fact is that some people claim they don’t like wool because it irritates their skin. In some cases, it is not the wool at all, but the lanolin it contains, causing the reaction! These people who have “wool allergies” are likely actually allergic to lanolin.

11.Though it is sometimes called “wool fat” or “wool grease” it isn’t a fat!

Although lanolin is a waxy substance that is malleable solid at room temperature, strictly speaking, it isn’t a fat. It lacks triglycerides; instead, it contains a bonded alcohol and acid, which produces a compound that should more accurately be referred to as a wax ester. A better term for lanolin oil, then, would be wool wax.

Some Products That May Contain Lanolin Oil

Because lanolin and its derivatives may be able to deliver certain positive benefits to some users skincare or even hair care routines, lanolin oil is frequently included in some of the following products:

-Beard oils and waxes

-Shaving creams

-Skin lotion or cream

-Face creams

-Lip balms

-Shampoos and conditioners

-And more

If you’re interested in making your own products from lanolin oil, be sure to check out our high-quality lanolin oil which is extracted from lanolin wax and makes a great natural substitute for mineral oil in creams, waxes, and oils.

Learn More at Make Your Own Buzz

Do you have any questions about our lanolin oil or our other high-quality products? Be sure to get in touch with us at 800-359-0944 and we’d be more than happy to help you out!