Lanolin oil: Composition and specification

Lanolin oil is chemically similar to lanolin anhydrous but contains additional lower molecular weight (MW) esters and branched-chain hydroxy compounds. The specific composition varies depending on the solvent used for crystallisation, such as isopropanol, which yields an average molecular weight of 360. In contrast, lanolin wax is the solid form obtained during the separation process. This clear, amber-coloured oil shares the well-known properties of lanolin anhydrous while being conveniently fluid at room temperature. Therefore, it is commonly used as an emulsifying agent, characterised by a high spreading coefficient and excellent emollient capabilities. Furthermore, it readily dissolves in both mineral and vegetable oils, ensuring complete solubility without precipitation.

Lanolin oil finds frequent use in moisturising skin care and hair care products. Thus, it is often incorporated into oil-based skin lotions, bath and hair oils, as well as various cosmetic emulsions, providing low viscosity and minimising stickiness.