In dermatology, there is a concept known as the “lanolin paradox.” This term appeared in scientific literature in the second half of the 20th century and remains an interesting example of the complexity of reactions occurring within the skin.

The paradox lies in the fact that lanolin applied to healthy, undamaged skin very rarely causes adverse reactions. At the same time, some cases of hypersensitivity have been observed in individuals where preparations containing lanolin were applied to skin affected by inflammation or significant damage to the epidermal barrier.

This primarily concerned patients with chronic skin lesions, ulcers, severe forms of eczema, and active atopic lesions.

This phenomenon resembles the “paraben paradox” previously described in dermatology, according to which certain substances can be well tolerated by healthy skin, while showing an increased allergenic potential in the case of significant damage to the protective barrier of the epidermis.

The lanolin paradox does not mean, therefore, that lanolin is a strong allergen. On the contrary — it highlights the importance of skin condition and the quality of the raw material used for the safety of its application.

10.The lanolin paradox