Banner image

Lanolin (On the skin)

Find

Learn More

Brand Name(s)

Lan-O-Soothe, Lanolin-GRX, Lanolor, Lansinoh Breastfeeding Starter Set, Lansinoh For Breast Feeding Mothers, Lansinoh HPA Lanolin, Lantiseptic Daily Care Skin Protectant, Lantiseptic Dry Skin Therapy, Medseptic Skin Protectant

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

How to Use This Medicine

Cream, Ointment

  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.
  • Use this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
  • Apply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently. Do not apply to deep or puncture wounds.
  • Ointment for sore nipples during breastfeeding:
    • Apply a pea-sized amount to the entire nipple area after each feeding or as needed.
    • You may also apply the ointment before a shower to protect sensitive nipples.
  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Introduction

Lanolin (LAN-oh-lin)

Treats cracked, dry, irritated skin and minor burns. Prevents and treats sore nipples during breastfeeding.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

Warnings While Using This Medicine

  • If you are using a product that contains other ingredients in addition to lanolin, make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to lanolin.

Review Date: 7/4/2018
Reviewed By:

ADAM QualityA.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 9-1-1 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only—they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2010 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.