Acetylated lanolin alcohol explained

Acetylated lanolin alcohol (sometimes known as sheep alcohol, lanolin alcohol, or wool alcohol) is a non-drying organic compound produced from lanolin, the fat of wool shearings, which has been reacted with acetic acid and a small amount of lye. There are synthetic variants available; however, the animal-derived product has more anti-allergenic tendencies. Acetylated lanolin alcohol is used as an emollient, to soften skin, but is mildly comedogenic, with a rating of 0-2 out of 5.[1] For this reason, those who are prone to whiteheads and blackheads should patch test before using on a large scale. Acetylated lanolin alcohol can also be inflammatory to those with wool or lanolin allergies,[2] and should be avoided in such cases.

Notes and References

  1. Web site: The Bad List: Comedogenic Ingredients And Products. Acne.org Community. en-US. 2016-12-12.
  2. Web site: Allergy to wool alcohols DermNet New Zealand. www.dermnetnz.org. 2016-12-12.