What are sebaceous glands?
Sebaceous glands are small glands located in the skin of most mammals, including humans. They are mainly attached to hair follicles , forming what is called the pilosebaceous unit. Their main role is the production and secretion of sebum , an oily substance, which contributes to the formation of the hydrolipidic film, a protective barrier on the surface of the skin.
Where are the sebaceous glands located?
Sebaceous glands are present all over the skin , with the notable exception of the palms of the hands and soles of the feet . They are particularly numerous on the scalp, face, and upper body, which is why these areas may be more prone to oily skin , acne, or oily hair .
What is the role of the sebaceous glands?
1. Sebum production
Sebum is an oily substance composed mainly of lipids, including free fatty acids , triglycerides, waxes and squalene. This production is regulated by the activity of the sebaceous glands , which are usually attached to the hair follicles, forming what is called the pilosebaceous unit. The excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands allow the sebum to flow to the skin surface and the scalp , where it participates in the formation and composition of the hydrolipidic film .
2. Skin protection
This hydrolipidic film is a thin protective layer that covers the skin and hair. Its role is to protect the surface of the skin against external aggressions (such as bacteria and pollutants), to prevent dehydration by limiting the evaporation of water, and to maintain the elasticity and suppleness of the skin. On the scalp, it also helps protect the hair, preventing it from drying out and giving it a shiny and smooth appearance.
3. Hydration and prevention of dehydration
The hydrolipidic film, made up partly of sebum, limits the evaporation of water on the surface of the skin, thus helping to maintain its hydration. By retaining moisture, it helps prevent dehydration and keeps the skin supple and soft.
4. Maintains skin pH balance
Sebum helps maintain a slightly acidic pH on the skin's surface, which is important for preventing the proliferation of harmful microorganisms. This acidic environment also helps protect the skin from infection.
5. Temperature regulation and skin suppleness
By creating a thin layer of fat on the skin, sebum helps regulate body temperature and keep the skin supple. This suppleness is essential so that the skin can adapt to body movements without cracking.
6. Lubrication of hair and scalp
Sebum lubricates the hair and scalp, protecting them from dryness. It also helps prevent damage caused by environmental factors such as wind, sun, and pollution. This lubrication keeps hair shiny and less prone to breakage.
7. Contributes to hair follicle health
Sebum nourishes and protects hair follicles, contributing to the overall health of hair. It plays an important role in growing and maintaining healthy hair.
8. Prevention of skin conditions
By creating a protective barrier and maintaining the skin's moisture balance, sebum helps prevent certain skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, and other irritations related to excessive dryness of the skin.
9. Response to hormonal stimuli
Sebum production is heavily influenced by hormones, particularly androgen hormones. These hormones, such as testosterone, stimulate the activity of the sebaceous glands, thereby increasing sebum production. This is why, during puberty, when androgen levels increase, skin often becomes oilier and hair may appear shinier or even greasy.
In cases of excessive sebum production, often associated with hypersensitivity of the sebaceous glands to androgens, the skin can become oily. This oily skin is often prone to various skin conditions, including blackheads and acne, caused by the obstruction of hair follicles by a mixture of sebum and dead cells.
How to unclog sebaceous glands?
Unclogging your sebaceous glands is essential to preventing and treating skin problems such as acne , blackheads , and other skin irritations. Clogged sebaceous glands often occur when sebum, dead skin cells, and other impurities clog your pores. Here are some effective methods to unclog your sebaceous glands:
1. Regular cleaning
- Use a gentle cleanser : Washing your face morning and night with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser helps remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities that can clog pores. A cleanser with probiotics is ideal for removing excess oil.
- Avoid harsh products : Cleansers that are too harsh can irritate the skin and stimulate excess sebum production, making the problem worse.
2. Exfoliation
- Chemical exfoliation : Use products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) such as salicylic acid , which penetrate pores to dissolve oil and dead cells.
- Physical exfoliation : Gentle scrubs with exfoliating particles can help remove dead surface cells, but it's important not to scrub too hard to avoid irritating the skin.
3. Steam treatments
- Steam bath : Steam opens the pores, making it easier to remove impurities. You can do a facial steam bath by exposing your face to warm steam for 5 to 10 minutes, followed by a gentle cleansing.
- Facial Sauna : A facial sauna works in a similar way and can be an effective method of opening pores and releasing blockages.
4. Clay masks
- Clay masks : Clay (like bentonite clay or green clay) has absorbent properties that help draw excess oil and impurities out of pores. Use a clay mask once or twice a week to deeply purify your skin.
5. Using a retinoid
- Retinoid creams : Retinoids (like retinol) are derived from vitamin A and promote cell turnover, which helps prevent the buildup of dead cells and unclog pores. They can also reduce sebum production.
6. Application of hot compresses
- Warm compresses : Applying a warm compress to the affected area can help open pores and soften sebum, making it easier to expel. This treatment is especially helpful for small bumps under the skin (like milia).
7. Professional Treatments
- Professional Skin Cleanses : A dermatologist or esthetician can perform a deep skin cleanse, including manual extraction of blackheads, which can be very effective in unclogging pores.
- Chemical peels : These treatments use stronger acids to exfoliate the top layers of the skin, helping to unclog pores and improve skin texture.
- Microdermabrasion : This treatment exfoliates the skin using a special device to remove dead cells and clean pores.
8. Maintain good hydration
- Use non-comedogenic moisturizers : Even oily skin needs hydration. Choose lightweight products that won't clog pores.
- Drink enough water : Good internal hydration helps maintain skin balance and prevent overproduction of sebum.
9. Control of hormonal factors
- Consult a professional : If you suspect that clogged oil glands are due to hormonal fluctuations (such as during puberty or the menstrual cycle), consulting a dermatologist or endocrinologist may be helpful. They can recommend hormonal treatments or appropriate medications.
10. Avoid touching your face
- Do not squeeze pimples : Touching, squeezing or scratching affected areas can worsen the blockage, cause infections or leave scars.
In summary, sebaceous glands play a crucial role in the protection, hydration, regulation and overall health of the skin and hair. They help maintain the balance of the skin while protecting it against various external aggressions.