Definition

1. Noun:
   • A fatty substance obtained from sheep's wool: Lanolin is a natural, waxy substance secreted by sheep to condition their wool and skin. It is a complex mixture of esters, fatty acids, and alcohols.
   • An emollient used in ointments and cosmetics: Due to its moisturizing and protective properties, purified lanolin is a common ingredient in skin care products, lotions, lip balms, and pharmaceutical ointments.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • This hand cream contains lanolin to help prevent dry skin.
  • Lanolin is often used as a base for medicinal ointments because it is easily absorbed.
  • Pure lanolin can be derived by washing raw sheep's wool.

Advanced Usage

• "Hydrous lanolin": Refers to lanolin that contains water, making it softer and easier to blend into cosmetic formulations.

  • Hydrous lanolin is preferred for making certain types of creams.

• "Anhydrous lanolin": Refers to lanolin that is water-free, typically a thicker, more viscous substance.

  • Anhydrous lanolin is a powerful occlusive agent, meaning it helps seal in moisture.

Variants and Related Words

• Lanolin oil: A liquid fraction of lanolin, often used in lighter cosmetic products.

  • Lanolin oil is less greasy than pure lanolin and is used in hair conditioners.

• Lanolin alcohol: A component derived from lanolin, used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in creams and lotions.

  • Lanolin alcohol helps mix oil and water components in cosmetic formulas.

Synonyms

• Wool fat: A direct synonym, though "lanolin" is the more common term in cosmetics and pharmacy.
• Wool wax: Another term emphasizing its waxy consistency.
• Adeps lanae: The pharmaceutical Latin name for lanolin.

Related Phrases and Compounds

• Lanolin-based: Describes a product whose formula relies on lanolin as a key ingredient.

  • She prefers lanolin-based nipple creams for breastfeeding.

• Hypoallergenic lanolin: Lanolin that has been processed to remove common allergens, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

  • Even with a wool allergy, she can use hypoallergenic lanolin.

Noun

1. an emollient containing wool fat (a fatty substance obtained from the wool of sheep)
2. a yellow viscous animal oil extracted from wool; a mixture of fatty acids and esters; used in some ointments and cosmetics