Anhydrous Lanolin (Lanolin Anhydrous)

Anhydrous Lanolin – Natural Emollient and Skin Protectant for Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 8006-54-0 (lanolin, anhydrous)

• INCI Name: Lanolin Anhydrous

• Appearance: Yellowish to amber, semi-solid waxy mass

• Odor: Characteristic, mild

• Melting Point: 38–44°C

• Acid Value: ≤1.0 mg KOH/g

• Saponification Value: 90–105 mg KOH/g

• Iodine Value: 18–36 g I₂/100 g

• Solubility: Practically insoluble in water; soluble in oils, fats, and organic solvents

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture

Overview
Anhydrous lanolin is a natural, purified wax-like substance derived from the wool of sheep (Ovis aries). It is a complex mixture of high-molecular-weight esters, fatty acids, and fatty alcohols, extracted from wool grease through a process of scouring, purification, dehydration, and refining. After removal of water, lanolin anhydrous is obtained, which has a higher concentration of active substances and improved stability compared to hydrous lanolin. It has been used for decades in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products for its excellent emollient, moisturizing, and protective properties.

Chemical Composition
Lanolin anhydrous is a complex mixture consisting primarily of:

• Esters of fatty acids (e.g., stearic, oleic, palmitic) with high-molecular-weight alcohols (lanolin alcohols).

• Free fatty acids and free fatty alcohols.

• Hydroxysterols and other sterol derivatives.
  The exact composition varies depending on the source and processing, but the overall structure provides a unique balance of hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties.

Physicochemical Properties

• Hydrophobic nature: Practically insoluble in water, forming a protective barrier on the skin that prevents transepidermal water loss.

• Emollient properties: Softens and smooths the skin, improving its texture and flexibility.

• Film-forming ability: Creates an elastic, breathable film that protects against environmental aggressors.

• Viscous, waxy consistency: Provides body and stability to formulations.

• Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of oils, waxes, and emulsifiers.

• Hypoallergenic grades: Available in refined, hypoallergenic forms for sensitive skin applications.

Applications

• Skin care: Creams, lotions, balms, ointments, and moisturizers – provides deep hydration, softens rough skin, and forms a protective barrier.

• Hair care: Conditioners, hair masks, and styling products – improves shine, manageability, and reduces frizz.

• Lip care: Lip balms and glosses – protects and moisturizes lips.

• Baby care: Diaper rash creams and baby lotions – soothes and protects delicate skin.

• Pharmaceuticals: Used as an ointment base and excipient in topical formulations.

• Other: Used in industrial applications, leather treatment, and as a lubricant.

Key Benefits

• Excellent emollient and skin-conditioning properties.

• Forms a protective moisture barrier, preventing water loss.

• Softens and smooths dry, chapped, or irritated skin.

• Biocompatible and well-tolerated by most skin types.

• Enhances the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.

• Available in various grades (anhydrous, hydrous, hypoallergenic, and ultra-refined) for tailored performance.

• Derived from renewable natural sources (sheep wool).

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels vary depending on the application:

• Skin care: 1–25% of the formulation.

• Hair care: 1–10% for conditioning and shine.

• Lip care: 10–30% for balms and glosses.

• For optimal performance, incorporate into the oil phase with heating (60–70°C). Can be combined with other emollients, emulsifiers, and thickeners for tailored rheology.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals at recommended concentrations.

• Well-tolerated by most skin types; however, individuals with known wool allergies may experience sensitivity.

• Hypoallergenic and ultra-refined grades are available for sensitive skin.

• Avoid contact with strong oxidizers.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

• Shelf life: typically 24–36 months under recommended storage conditions.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for acid value, saponification value, iodine value, and microbial purity to ensure consistent quality and compliance with cosmetic and pharmaceutical standards.