Sebum: What It Is and How to Deal With It

When it comes to sebum, it seems like there are a lot of mixed messages out there. Some people say that sebum is the root of all skin problems, while others claim that it's essential for maintaining healthy skin. So, what's the deal? Should we be trying to get rid of our sebum, or should we be embracing it?

Sebum is a natural oil that is produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. It is what helps to keep our skin hydrated and healthy. However, sometimes too much sebum can be produced, which can lead to oily skin, acne, and other skin problems. In this blog post, we will discuss what sebum is, why it is important for our skin health, and how to deal with excess sebum production.

Let's take a closer look at this often-misunderstood substance.

What is sebum?

Sebum is a type of oil that is produced by the sebaceous glands in our skin. It's made up of triglycerides, wax esters, and squalene. Sebum helps to keep our skin moisturized and protected from environmental damage.

The sebaceous glands are located in the dermis, which is the middle layer of the skin. These glands are connected to hair follicles, and they secrete sebum onto the surface of the skin. Sebum travels up the hair shaft and coats it, which helps to keep the hair moisturized and healthy.

Why is sebum important for our skin?

Sebum is an important part of the skin's natural barrier, which helps to protect us from environmental damage. It also helps to keep our skin hydrated and prevents it from becoming dry and irritated. In addition, sebum helps to fight off bacteria and other harmful microbes that can cause skin problems.

However, too much sebum can lead to problems like acne. When the pores become clogged with excess oil, it provides the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. This can result in inflammation and breakouts. 

But that doesn't mean that sebum is bad for our skin. In fact, sebum is essential for maintaining healthy skin. The key is to find a balance - not too much and not too little.

Hormones and sebum production

Sebum production is controlled by hormones, which is why it often increases during puberty. After puberty, sebum production typically stabilizes, but it can still fluctuate due to hormonal changes throughout our lifetime. For example, sebum production often increases during pregnancy and menopause.

Stress can also affect hormone levels and lead to an increase in sebum production. So, if you're noticing that your skin is oilier than usual, it might be due to stress.

Read more: Stress Wrinkles

How can we deal with excess sebum production?

If you are struggling with excess sebum production, there are a few things that you can do to help control it.

Use gentle cleansing agents

First, make sure that you are cleansing your skin properly. Use a gentle cleanser that won't strip away the natural oils in your skin. Avoid using harsh scrubs or exfoliants, as these can irritate the skin and make sebum production worse.

Try a clay mask

Another option is to try a clay mask. Clay masks help to absorb excess oil and remove impurities from the skin. This can help to reduce sebum production and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

Exfoliate regularly

In addition, make sure to exfoliate your skin regularly. This will help to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

Use oil-free products

When choosing skincare products, look for ones that are labeled "oil-free" or "non-comedogenic." These products won't clog your pores or contribute to excess sebum production.

Wash your pillowcases frequently

Be sure to wash your pillowcases frequently. Pillowcases can collect oil and dirt, which can then be transferred back to your skin. Washing them regularly will help to keep your skin clean and clear.

Avoid touching your face

Finally, try to avoid touching your face throughout the day. Your hands can transfer bacteria and dirt to your skin, which can worsen breakouts. If you must touch your face, make sure to wash your hands first.

Read more: Beauty Secrets: Dealing With Oily Skin

Conclusion

If you're struggling with excess sebum production, don't despair! There are plenty of things you can do to get your sebum under control. And remember, nobody knows your skin better than a licensed esthetician. If you're not sure where to start, book a skincare consultation at our Naples, FL studio today. We'll help you develop a customized plan for getting your sebum under control and achieving healthy, beautiful skin!