Lanolin

Lanolin is an emollient/occlusive used commonly around 1–20% (and even higher in ointments) to reduce water loss, but it has a well-documented risk of allergic contact dermatitis in a subset of users, especially those with eczema or compromised barriers. While many tolerate highly purified lanolin, patch-testing and clinical reports show sensitization can be clinically meaningful, and irritation/allergy can be harder to distinguish in inflamed skin. Given its frequent use in leave-on products and the higher risk population (atopic dermatitis) it’s often applied to, I score it as moderate and recommend patch testing for sensitive individuals. Safety Notes: In mass-market leave-on creams/lotions and cleansers, lanolin is often used at very low levels (~0.1–2%) as an emollient/co-emulsifier or skin-feel modifier, with mid-range occlusive balms and barrier creams commonly around 5–30%. At the high end, consumer-available nipple/skin protectant products are sold as “100% lanolin” (anhydrous lanolin) or near-neat lanolin, representing the practical maximum for OTC retail. Lanolin is not subject to a specific EU/FDA maximum concentration limit in cosmetics, but allergen/sensitization risk can drive lower use levels in facial leave-on products compared with body/occlusive balms.

Suitability