What is Lanolin (Natural Wool Wax)?

Lanolin is the natural wax from sheep's wool. When wool is washed, this wool fat is released and then purified into a soft, yellow, semi-solid wax. It melts at around skin temperature and feels rich and protective.

The scent is soft, lightly wool-like and a bit greasy. In highly refined quality, you barely smell anything.

Lanolin creates a supple protective layer on the skin that prevents moisture loss and can retain water. Ideal for lips, cracks, heels and other dry spots. Great for homemade lip balm, hand cream and nappy rash cream. Please note: lanolin comes from sheep and is therefore not vegan.

What are the benefits of Lanolin (Natural Wool Wax)?

Strong moisture barrier
Lanolin forms a breathable layer that slows evaporation. This keeps skin hydrated longer, even in wind and cold.

Holds water
This wax can absorb several times its own weight in water. This plumps fine lines and makes skin more resilient.

Makes rough skin soft again
The wax esters and fatty acids soften rough spots, so lips, knees and heels feel suppler quickly.

Resembles skin's own oils
Lanolin contains cholesterol and phytosterols that resemble your own sebum. This works well with the skin.

Stays where it should
The somewhat sticky texture adheres well. Great as protection on cracks, cuticles and dry patches.

Powerful in DIY
A small amount already gives a rich, creamy texture and keeps creams with oil and water well mixed.

How to use Lanolin (Natural Wool Wax)?

Face: on very dry spots or as a final, sealing step over a hydrating serum. Warm a small amount (size of a grain of rice to a pea) between your fingers and massage onto slightly damp skin.

Lips: pure as a thin layer, or work 10-50% into a lip balm.

Dry spots: a thin layer pure on elbows, heels and cuticles. For more slip, apply a bit of light oil underneath first.

Hands and feet: 2-15% in daily creams, or 10-50% in a rich night balm.

Hair: melt a tiny amount between your palms and smooth over dry ends against frizz. In conditioners 1-5%.

DIY formulating: melt lanolin gently at 40-50°C and add to the oil phase. In lotions 1-10% for extra comfort. Want to add fragrance? Keep essential oil at 0.5-1% of the final product and never use undiluted.

Please note: do a patch test if you are sensitive to wool or lanolin. For sensitive skin, use sparingly or only on small areas.

What makes Lanolin (Natural Wool Wax) so special?

Lanolin can absorb several times its own weight in water and thus creates a kind of mini-cream on your skin. You get the protection of a balm and the hydration of a cream, without complicated steps.