Ingredient glossary
Lanolin
INCI: Lanolin · Also: Wool Wax, Hydrous Wool Fat
A genuinely useful ingredient with real evidence behind it, not hype.
What it does
- barrier support
- softening
strong evidencePatch test and epidemiologic studies show lanolin allergy prevalence around one to seven percent in dermatitis populations leading to its designation as an allergen of the year despite long history of barrier benefit.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- very dry
- compromised barrier
- normal
Approach with care
- direct lanolin allergy
- acne prone
- very oily
- Clogs poresModerate
- Irritation riskModerate
Pregnancy: Check with your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Plays well with
- ceramides
- humectants
This, for every label you own
One ingredient is easy. A full label is where it gets confusing. The Ingredient Decoder reads any product and tells you the honest truth, ingredient by ingredient.
Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.