What to do about excess sebum?

Excess sebum is a common problem for people with oily skin. Sebum production, regulated by the sebaceous glands (or sebaceous glands), is essential for maintaining skin health. However, excessive sebum secretion can lead to various skin problems such as clogged pores, blackheads, and a greasy skin sensation, often referred to as oily skin. This article explores the causes of excess sebum and offers solutions to address it.

Understanding sebum and its role

Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands, located at the base of hair follicles (hair follicles). This liquid, a complex mixture of lipids, plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin's barrier function. Sebum helps to form a protective barrier, called the hydrolipidic film, which covers the skin's surface and protects it from external aggressors like UV rays and pollution.

Causes of excess sebum

1. Hormonal fluctuations

Hormones play a major role in regulating sebum production. During adolescence, pregnancy, the menstrual cycle, or menopause, hormone levels, particularly androgens, can increase. This increase stimulates the sebaceous glands, leading to increased sebum secretion.

2. Genetics

Genetic characteristics strongly influence the size and activity of sebaceous glands. If your parents or other family members have oily skin, you are likely to inherit a tendency for sebum overproduction.

3. Diet

A diet rich in refined sugars, saturated fats, and dairy products can worsen excess sebum. These foods can increase insulin production, which in turn stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum.

4. Stress

Stress is a significant factor in increased sebum production. It triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that can stimulate the sebaceous glands and increase sebum secretion.

5. Climate and environment

Climate and environmental conditions can affect sebum production. In hot and humid environments, sebaceous glands are often more active, which can lead to oilier skin. Additionally, exposure to pollution and external aggressors can also stimulate the sebaceous glands.

6. Unsuitable skincare

Using unsuitable skincare products can disrupt the natural balance of sebum. For instance, harsh cleansers or alcohol-based products can dry out the skin. In response, the sebaceous glands might produce more sebum to compensate for this dryness.

7. Excessive Use of Beauty Products

Using too much makeup or products that clog pores (comedogenic products) can trap sebum in your pores, leading to breakouts and an oily appearance.

8. Internal Factors like Insufficient Hydration

Paradoxically, dehydrated skin can lead to increased sebum production, as the sebaceous glands produce more sebum to make up for the lack of moisture. Therefore, not drinking enough water or using products that dehydrate the skin can worsen excess sebum.

9. Medications

Certain medications, such as steroids or contraceptives, can affect hormone levels and, consequently, sebum production.

10. Natural Skin Cycles

Skin naturally produces more sebum at certain times of the day, typically in the late afternoon and evening. This can explain why your skin might appear oilier at specific times.

Consequences of Excess Sebum

When sebum production is excessive, it can lead to clogged pores. This happens when excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells and other impurities, forming plugs that block the pores. This phenomenon causes the appearance of blackheads and other skin imperfections like acne and hormonal acne. Additionally, excess sebum can give the skin a shiny and oily appearance, which is often considered undesirable.

The scalp can also be affected by excess sebum, leading to oily hair and itching. The sebaceous glands on the scalp, just like those on the skin, can produce too much sebum, making hair heavy and difficult to style.

How to Regulate Sebum Production

1. Use Suitable Products

• Choose skincare products formulated for oily skin. These products are often non-comedogenic, meaning they won't block pores, and are designed to regulate sebum production without drying out the skin.
• Gentle cleansers containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help reduce excess sebum and prevent clogged pores.

2. Hydrate Properly

Even if your skin is oily, hydration is essential. A good moisturizer will help keep the hydrolipidic film intact without stimulating sebum production.

3. Adopt a Balanced Diet

Limit foods high in saturated fats and refined sugars, which can stimulate excess sebum. Instead, opt for foods rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants.

4. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that can mix with sebum and block pores. Use a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week to avoid irritating your skin.

5. Protect Skin from UV Rays

Excessive sun exposure can dry out the skin, leading to an increase in sebum production to compensate. Use a light, non-comedogenic sunscreen to protect yourself from UV rays.

6. Manage Stress

Stress is a major factor in increased sebum production. Practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can help reduce stress and, consequently, control excess sebum.

Conclusion

Excess sebum can be a challenge, but with the right skincare habits and a balanced lifestyle, it's possible to control it effectively. By understanding the role of sebaceous glands and adopting appropriate measures, you can maintain healthy skin and avoid the discomfort associated with oily skin.