Magnesium Lanolate
AKA “Magnesium salt of lanolic acid
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Magnesium lanolate
AKA: Magnesium salt of lanolic acid
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Barrier Lipid
Not Clean
Fatty acids, lanolin, magnesium salts
CAS #
85005-40-9
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Anticaking
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Viscosity Controlling
Surfactant Cleansing
Surfactant Emulsifying
Anti-Inflammatory
Fights Acne
Antioxidant
Lifts away dirt and oil
Prevents clumping
Mixes oil and water
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A modern derivative of lanolin (wool grease) developed in the early-to-mid 20th century. Combines the traditional emollient properties of lanolin with magnesium salts for improved stability in cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR