Lanolin Alcohol

Lanowax EP CMK

Lanowax EP-CMK consists of the highly refined, unsaponifiable fraction of wool wax, which is additionally subjected to molecular distillation to improve both color and odor. Synonyms: wool wax alcohols, lanolin alcohols, wool alcohols. Lanowax EP-CMK is a very complex mixture of alcohols with a mean molecular weight of about 370 Da, consisting of cholesterol, lanosterol, agnosterol, and their dihydro derivatives as well as straight and branched chain aliphatic alcohols.

Features

Lanowax EP-CMK is distinguished from normal Lanolin alcohol by its bright color and faint odor. It is a strong W/O- emulsifier in the form of a hard, semi-crystalline wax and fulfils the requirements of the monograph ‘Wool Alcohols’ of the European Pharmacopoeia. Only the best raw material is used for production and process conditions are chosen to ensure that the product does not degrade thermally or chemically. Since it is manufactured gently in modern facilities, the initial peroxide value (measure of oxidation) is very low. Therefore Lanowax EP-CMK does not need additional stabilizers. Nevertheless, a shelf life of 2 years is guaranteed. Upon request, BHT or natural alpha-tocopherol can be added as stabilizers.

Applications

The good colour characteristic and low odor of Lanowax EP-CMK works well in creams of highest quality, where maximum white colour is important, e.g. in sports creams, hair creams, creams for dry skin, etc. Its emulsifying properties can be increased by addition of cetyl alcohol, beeswax or lanolin (de-oiled). These mixtures are the basis of ointments with a remarkably good color. Lanowax EP-CMK can be used in small quantities as a thickening agent in shampoos and bath gels.

Dermatology

Lanowax EP-CMK consists of Wool Alcohols Ph. Eur., a substance that is used in many pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. In only very few cases an allergic reaction was observed. The substance is also listed in other pharmacopoeias such as in the USP. Wool Alcohols showed an LD50 in acute oral toxicity test greater than the maximum administered dose, reflecting an extremely low toxicity.

Processing

Lanowax EP-CMK is easy to use. It is safe, melts easily and has a relatively low volatility. Prolonged heating above the melting point should be avoided. In cases where cholesterol crystals are still present after melting, the melt can be further heated to 115 °C. Subsequently, it should be quickly cooled down. Lanowax EP-CMK should be stored cool and dry in well-sealed containers in preferably large pieces with minimal surface area.

Solubility at room temperature

Water: none; mineral oil: partially soluble; castor oil: soluble; oleyl alcohols: soluble; isopropyl myristate: partially soluble