Ingrédient · Ingrédient
Lanolin alcohol
A sheep-wool-derived moisturizer that's a well-known but uncommon skin allergen.
Lanolin alcohol is the fatty-alcohol fraction of lanolin (sheep wool grease), used in creams, lip balms and ointments as an emollient and thickener. It's safe for most people on skin, but it's one of the more recognized causes of contact allergy, especially in people with existing eczema or leg ulcers.
Affiché en anglais — la traduction arrive.
Why it matters
Lanolin alcohol comes from purifying lanolin, the waxy grease sheep produce to protect their wool. In cosmetics it softens skin, helps creams stay stable, and gives lip products a smooth feel. In the body it mostly acts as a physical barrier and moisturizer on skin - it isn't absorbed in meaningful amounts through intact skin. The main thing to know: a small but consistent share of people, particularly those with damaged or chronically irritated skin (like eczema patients or people with leg ulcers), develop an allergic skin reaction to lanolin-derived ingredients over time.
Sources (2)
- 1.CosIng - Cosmetic Ingredient Database (European Commission)
- 2.American Contact Dermatitis Society - Lanolin allergen information
