Acetylated lanolin alcohol

Acetylated lanolin alcohol, sometimes known as "sheep alcohol" or wool alcohol, is a non-drying organic compound produced from lanolin, the fat of wool shearings, which has been reacted with acetic acid and a small amount of lye. There are synthetic variants available; however, the animal-derived product has more anti-allergenic tendencies. Acetylated lanolin alcohol is used as an emollient, to soften skin, but is highly comedogenic. For this reason, those who frequently erupt with whiteheads or blackheads are advised to avoid topical use of this substance on the skin.