Lanolin, a substance well-known for its skin-softening properties, has been designated as the Contact Allergen of the Year for 2023 by the American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS).
Lanolin is a complex mixture of compounds like esters, alcohols, sterols, fatty acids, and hydrocarbons. It has been used for centuries for its ability to moisturize the skin. However, the prevalence of lanolin-induced allergies among dermatitis patients varies from 1.2% to 6.9%, according to stats published in an article by Dermatology Times.
Dr. Donald V. Belsito, a respected dermatology professor at Columbia University, announced this recognition during the ACDS Annual Meeting in March 2023.
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The details were subsequently published in the journal Dermatitis. Dr. Belsito highlighted that people with specific skin conditions like stasis dermatitis, leg ulcers, perianal/genital dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis (AD) are more prone to developing lanolin allergies.
The article also mentions that children and older adults are at a slightly higher risk of lanolin allergy. This increased vulnerability is likely due to the higher occurrence of AD among children and stasis dermatitis/leg ulcers among older adults.
Common areas of the body affected by allergic reactions to lanolin include the hands, scattered generalised areas, and the face.
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Dr. Jonathan Silverberg, an associate professor of dermatology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, shared insights on lanolin’s role in treating common skin conditions and the key considerations for clinicians.
As quoted by Dermatology Times, Dr Silverberg is quoted:
“[Lanolin allergy] is particularly relevant because it is so commonly found in over-the-counter emollients, moisturisers, and topical medications, it has certain properties that make it potentially soothing to the skin. But if someone’s allergic to it, it can be really problematic.”
“What we often see is patients who are using products with lanolin, included as an ingredient in order to address either dry skin or some other inflammation, perhaps like atopic dermatitis. But then over time, with that chronic use, can pick up a contact allergy.”
Which beauty and skincare products typically contain lanolin?
- Lip balms
- Moisturisers
- Hand creams
- Body lotions
- Nipple creams
- Makeup removers
- Hair care products
- Anti-chafing creams
- Cuticle creams
- Baby skincare products
- Foot creams
- Sunscreen products
- Tattoo aftercare products
- Barrier creams
The ACDS has chosen to spotlight lanolin as a significant allergen for the year, underscoring its potential to trigger allergic reactions. If you suffer from atopic dermatitis, read through the ingredients in your skincare and beauty products as well as your laundry detergents. If you spot lanolin, it may be the culprit to your AD, and you should discuss further with your GP.
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