Description

Acetylated Lanolin Alcohol is a modified form of lanolin alcohol, where acetyl groups have been added to the lanolin alcohol molecules. Lanolin alcohol itself is a derivative of lanolin, a natural substance obtained from sheep wool. Acetylation enhances the properties of lanolin alcohol, improving its stability and compatibility in cosmetic formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Components: Acetylated lanolin alcohol is derived from lanolin alcohol with acetyl groups attached.
Chemical Formula: The exact formula varies due to the complex nature of lanolin alcohol and the acetylation process.
Molecular Weight: Varies based on the specific lanolin alcohol used and the degree of acetylation.

Physical Properties

Appearance: Typically appears as a waxy or creamy substance.
Odor: Generally mild or neutral.
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, but more soluble in oils and organic solvents.
pH: Generally neutral.
Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions; should be kept in a cool, dry place away from excessive heat or moisture.

Production Process

Extraction: Lanolin alcohol is first extracted from lanolin, a natural wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep.
Acetylation: Lanolin alcohol is then chemically modified by reacting it with acetic anhydride or acetyl chloride to introduce acetyl groups.
Purification: The acetylated product is purified to remove any unreacted materials and ensure high quality.

Applications

Cosmetics: Used in creams, lotions, and balms to provide emollient and moisturizing properties. It helps to enhance the texture and spreadability of cosmetic products.
Personal Care Products: Incorporated into various skincare products to improve skin conditioning and maintain moisture levels.
Pharmaceuticals: Occasionally used in topical formulations to enhance the delivery and efficacy of active ingredients.
Food: Not typically used in food applications; primarily used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Acetylated lanolin alcohol is generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when used according to established guidelines. It should be handled and stored properly to maintain its efficacy and minimize potential environmental impact. Adherence to safety recommendations is important to avoid any adverse effects, particularly for individuals with lanolin allergies or sensitivities.

INCI Functions:


Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss. Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives.

Hair conditioning agent. A significant number of ingredients with specific and targeted purposes may co-exist in hair shampoo formulations: cleansers, conditioners, thickeners, matting agents, sequestering agents, fragrances, preservatives, special additives. However, the indispensable ingredients are the cleansers and conditioners as they are necessary and sufficient for hair cleansing and manageability. The others act as commercial and non-essential auxiliaries such as: appearance, fragrance, colouring, etc. Hair conditioning agents have the task of increasing shine, manageability and volume, and reducing static electricity, especially after treatments such as colouring, ironing, waving, drying and brushing. They are, in practice, dispersants that may contain cationic surfactants, thickeners, emollients, polymers. The typology of hair conditioning agents includes: intensive conditioners, instant conditioners, thickening conditioners, drying conditioners. They can perform their task generally accompanied by other different ingredients.

Skin conditioning agent - Occlusive. This ingredient has the task of modifying the condition of the skin when it is damaged or dry by reducing flaking and restoring elasticity. It has a strong lipophilic character and is identified as an occlusive ingredient; it is generally composed of oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce trans epidermal water loss.
Synonyms:

CAS: