All about sebum: functions, causes of excess and effective solutions

Sebum is often negatively perceived due to its association with oily and combination skin and acne. However, it is an essential component for skin health. This article explores what sebum is, its beneficial role, the causes and effects of excess sebum, and effective methods for managing it, providing a balanced perspective on the importance of maintaining optimal levels of natural oils for healthy, well-groomed skin.

What is sebum and how is it produced?

Sebum is a natural oily substance secreted by the sebaceous glands in the skin. These microscopic glands are found on most of the body's surface, except for the palms and soles of the feet. Sebum plays an important role in maintaining the health and optimal appearance of the skin and hair.

Sebum has a complex composition, including:

triglycerides and fatty acids (approximately 57%)
wax esters (approximately 26%)
squalene (approximately 12%)
cholesterol (approximately 4.5%)

The production of sebum, a process called holocrine secretion, includes the following steps:

Specialized cells, called sebocytes, mature inside the sebaceous gland.
As sebocytes migrate toward the center of the gland, they accumulate lipids.
When they reach the central area, the sebocytes disintegrate, releasing their lipid content.
The resulting sebum is released through hair follicles or directly to the skin surface.

Sebum production is influenced by various factors, including:

hormones, especially testosterone and other androgens
age – production increases during puberty and tends to decrease with advancing age
genetic factors
environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity level
diet and lifestyle

Understanding the process of natural oil formation in the skin and the factors that influence it is important for effectively managing problems caused by excess or deficiency of sebum. Next, we will detail the beneficial roles of sebum for skin and hair.

The role and benefits of sebum for skin and hair

Often associated with problems like oily skin or acne, sebum plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin and hair. Here's a look at its benefits:

Skin barrier protection

An important role of sebum is to maintain the integrity of the skin barrier. It forms a protective layer on the skin's surface that:

prevents excessive water loss, maintaining an optimal level of hydration
preserves skin elasticity, thus preventing dryness and cracking
provides protection against environmental factors such as pollution and UV radiation.

Antimicrobial action

sebum contains compounds with antimicrobial properties, especially fatty acids, which contribute to:

limiting the excessive development of bacteria and fungi on the skin
maintaining a balanced microbiome, essential for skin health
reducing the risk of minor skin infections.

pH adjustment

Sebum helps maintain a slightly acidic pH of the skin (between 4.5 and 6.5), an environment that:

prevents the development of pathogenic microorganisms
supports optimal functioning of skin enzymes
helps maintain the integrity of the stratum corneum, the skin's first line of defense.

Benefits for hair

On the scalp, sebum has specific roles:

lubricates the hair, preventing it from drying out and becoming brittle
gives hair a shiny appearance and makes it easier to style
protects the scalp against dehydration and irritation

Antioxidant action

Components of sebum, such as squalene, have antioxidant properties, which:

neutralizes free radicals that can damage skin cells
helps prevent premature skin aging
supports the skin's natural repair processes

Transport of fat-soluble vitamins

Sebum facilitates the transport and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins in the skin, especially:

vitamin E – antioxidant that provides protection against UV radiation
vitamin D – synthesized in the skin under the action of sunlight

These benefits highlight the importance of maintaining a balance in sebum production. However, there are situations when excess sebum is produced. In the next section, we will explore the causes and areas affected by this problem.

The main causes of excess sebum

Sebum production is influenced by factors, the most important of which are:

Hormonal imbalances: Androgens, especially testosterone, stimulate sebum production. Excess sebum is common during puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause.
Genetic predisposition: Some people are genetically predisposed to more intense sebaceous gland activity.
Stress: Stressful situations can trigger an increase in the production of hormones that stimulate the sebaceous glands.
Diet: Excessive consumption of foods with a high glycemic index and saturated fats can influence sebum production.
Environmental factors: Excessive heat and high humidity can stimulate the activity of the sebaceous glands.
Medications: Certain oral contraceptives, corticosteroids, or androgen supplements can increase sebum production.

Affected areas

Sebaceous glands are present on almost the entire surface of the body, but certain areas are more prone to problems caused by excess sebum:

T-zone of the face: The forehead, nose, and chin have the highest concentration of sebaceous glands and are often the first areas to show signs of excess sebum.
Scalp: Excess sebum can lead to oily hair and contribute to dandruff. Hydrafacial is a procedure that removes excess sebum and impurities from the scalp, promoting hair growth. Here you can learn more about Hydrafacial treatment, an effective option for scalp care.
Chest and upper back area: they have a high density of sebaceous glands and are frequently affected by acne.
Behind the ears: This area can be affected by excess sebum, leading to irritation and possible infections.

The impact of excess sebum on the skin

Excess sebum can have several negative effects on the skin:

shiny and oily appearance
enlarged pores
formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads)
increased risk of acne
possible exacerbation of seborrheic dermatitis

Although excess sebum can be problematic, completely eliminating sebum is not the solution. The goal should be to maintain the benefits of sebum while reducing the negative effects of excess. Let's look at the specific impact of excess sebum on skin and hair.

The impact of excess sebum on skin and hair

Effects on the skin

Excess sebum can have an impact on the health and appearance of the skin, causing various imbalances:

Formation of sebaceous filaments: These are microscopic structures that appear when sebum accumulates in pores, giving the appearance of gray or yellowish dots on the nose and cheeks. Sebaceous filaments are a normal accumulation of sebum and dead cells.
Acne exacerbation: excess sebum can combine with dead skin cells, creating a favorable environment for bacteria to grow Cutibacterium acnes, which leads to inflammation and the formation of acne lesions. To identify your genetic predisposition to acne, you can opt for a genetic acne testing Skincare Trichotest.
Modification of the skin microbiome: Excess sebum can disrupt the balance of beneficial microorganisms on the skin, favoring the growth of potentially harmful bacteria.
Increased sensitivity to environmental factors: Skin with excess sebum can become more sensitive to pollutants, which can stick more easily to the oily surface.

Impact on hair and scalp

Excess sebum affects hair and scalp:

oily and lackluster hair: Excess sebum makes hair look greasy and reduces volume.
Seborrheic dandruff: Seborrheic dandruff is characterized by oily, yellowish scales, caused by excessive accumulation of sebum and dead cells on the scalp.
Changes in the hair growth cycle: Excess sebum can influence the hair growth cycle, contributing to thinning hair or even hair loss in severe cases.

Psychological and social impact

Beyond the physical effects, excess sebum can have an impact on the psychological and social state of affected people:

Decreased self-confidence, especially in cases of severe acne
Social anxiety and the tendency to avoid social interactions
Stress related to the need for constant skin and hair care.

Potential complications

In severe and untreated cases, excess sebum can lead to complications:

seborrheic dermatitis: An inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, scaly, and itchy areas, often exacerbated by excess sebum.
folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicles, which can be aggravated by the accumulation of sebum and bacteria.
post-acne scars: In severe cases of acne caused by excess sebum, permanent scarring may occur.

Understanding these complex effects highlights the importance of a holistic approach to managing this problem. Below, we will explore methods of controlling and treating excess sebum, offering practical solutions for maintaining a healthy balance of skin and hair.

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Control and treatment methods for excess sebum

Effective management of excess sebum requires a multifactorial approach, combining topical care with systemic treatments and lifestyle changes. Here is an overview of the available control and treatment methods:

Topical care

A proper skincare routine is essential for managing excess sebum:

Gentle cleaning: Use gentle, soap-free cleansers that don't disrupt the skin barrier. Avoid over-cleansing, which can stimulate sebum production. Proper facial cleansing is essential to remove residue and impurities.
Regular exfoliation: Gentle exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), such as salicylic acid, are especially effective for oily skin.
Adequate hydration: Oily skin needs hydration. Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that won't clog pores.
Active ingredients: Look for products that contain niacinamide, zinc, or azelaic acid, known for their ability to regulate sebum production and soothe inflammation.

Drug treatments

For severe cases, treatments prescribed by a dermatologist may be necessary:

Topical retinoids: Vitamin A derivatives, such as tretinoin, can regulate sebum production and prevent the formation of comedones.
Topical or oral antibiotics: They may be prescribed to combat bacteria associated with acne caused by excess sebum.
Oral isotretinoin: In severe cases of seborrheic acne, this medication can reduce sebum production. It requires close monitoring due to potential side effects.
Hormone therapy: Certain oral contraceptives can help regulate hormonal imbalances that stimulate excessive sebum production.

Professional treatments

Procedures performed in dermatology offices can provide good results:

Chemical peels: Helps with deep exfoliation and unclogging pores.
Microdermabrasion: Removes the superficial layer of skin, reducing the appearance of enlarged pores.
Light therapy: Certain light treatments can reduce the activity of the sebaceous glands.
Microneedling: An effective treatment for skin regeneration and reducing sebum secretion is Dermapen.

Lifestyle changes

Certain changes in your daily routine can have a positive impact:

Stress management: Relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga can help regulate stress hormones that influence sebum production.
Dietary adjustments: Reducing your intake of high-glycemic index foods and dairy products may help some people control excess sebum.
Adequate hydration: Drinking enough water can help maintain the skin's moisture balance.

Specific care for oily hair

For people with oily hair caused by excess sebum:

Use shampoos specially formulated for oily hair, which contain ingredients like menthol or salicylic acid.
Avoid applying conditioner or hair masks to the roots.
Consider using dry shampoos between washes to absorb excess sebum.

Managing excess sebum is a long-term process that requires patience. The effectiveness of treatments can vary, requiring a trial-and-error approach to find the right combination. To further support these efforts, we will explore the influence of diet and lifestyle on sebum production.

The influence of diet and lifestyle on sebum production

Topical care plays an important role in managing excess sebum, but internal factors, such as diet and lifestyle, can have a significant impact. Adjusting these factors can contribute to a more effective approach to sebum control.

The impact of diet

Research suggests that certain foods can influence the activity of the sebaceous glands:

Foods with a high glycemic index: Frequent consumption of refined carbohydrates and sugar can lead to insulin fluctuations, which can stimulate sebum production. Limiting your intake of these foods can help balance sebum production.
Dairy products: Some studies suggest a link between milk consumption and acne exacerbation, due to the hormones present in milk.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Eating foods rich in omega-3s, such as fatty fish, flaxseeds, or walnuts, can help reduce inflammation and regulate sebum production.
Antioxidants: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides antioxidants that can combat oxidative stress and support skin health.

Hydration

Adequate hydration can help regulate sebum production:

Drinking enough water helps maintain the skin's water balance, preventing dehydration, which can stimulate compensatory sebum production.
Try to consume at least 2 liters of fluids per day, preferably plain water, adjusting the amount depending on your activity level and climate.

The role of stress

Stress can have an impact on sebum production. Here are some strategies for managing stress:

Meditation and mindfulness: Regularly practicing these techniques can reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, which can stimulate sebum production.
Physical exercises: Physical activity can help regulate hormones and reduce stress. Cleanse your face immediately after exercising.
Quality sleep: Adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night) is essential for hormonal regulation and skin regeneration.

Influence of environmental factors

The environment in which we live and work can affect sebum production:

Pollution: Exposure to pollutants can stimulate sebum production. Use products with antioxidant properties and cleanse your face at night.
Humidity and temperature: Hot and humid environments can increase sebum production. Modify your skincare routine to use lighter-textured products during hot weather.

Supplements and natural remedies

Certain supplements and natural remedies can help regulate sebum production:

Zinc: This mineral may help regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation. Consult a doctor before starting supplementation.
Green tea: Consumed or applied topically, green tea has antioxidant properties and can help regulate sebum production.
Tea tree oil: Known for its antibacterial properties, it can be effective in managing acne. Use it diluted and test it on a small area of skin to avoid side effects.

The importance of consistency and patience

Changes in diet and lifestyle may take time to show their effects on sebum production:

Maintain new habits for at least 4-6 weeks before evaluating results.
Keep a diary of your diet, skincare routine, and skin condition to identify factors that influence sebum production.

Integrating these lifestyle changes with your topical skincare routine can be an effective approach to managing excess sebum. However, sometimes professional help is needed. Below, we'll discuss when to see a dermatologist for sebum-related issues.

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When to consult a dermatologist for sebum problems

Many problems related to excess sebum can be managed with home care and lifestyle changes, but there are situations where a dermatologist's opinion is essential. Here are when you should consider consulting a specialist:

Signs it's time to see a dermatologist

Persistence of problems: If excess sebum and associated problems persist or worsen despite a consistent care routine for 2-3 months.
Severe or cystic acne: The presence of deep acne lesions requires prompt medical intervention. For effective treatments, it is important to understand types of acne and available treatments.
Sudden changes in sebum production: A significant increase or decrease in sebum production may indicate a hormonal problem or a dermatological condition.
Severe seborrheic dermatitis: If you notice extensive areas of red, scaly, and irritated skin on your scalp that do not respond to regular treatments.
Psychological impact: When problems related to excess sebum affect self-confidence or quality of life.

What does the dermatological consultation include?

At your first visit to the dermatologist you can expect the following:

Detailed medical history: The doctor will ask questions about your medical history, skin care routine, diet, and lifestyle.
Skin examination: a careful assessment of the affected areas.
Additional tests: In some cases, hormone tests or skin biopsies may be recommended.
Personalized treatment plan: Depending on the severity of the problem, the dermatologist will propose an adapted treatment plan.

Treatment options prescribed by a dermatologist

Dermatologists have a wide range of treatments available to manage excess sebum:

Topical or oral retinoids: Vitamin A-derived medications, which can regulate sebum production.
Antibiotics: For cases of inflammatory acne, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Hormone therapy: Certain oral contraceptives can help regulate hormonal imbalances.
Azelaic acid or salicylic acid treatments: Professional formulas that can provide regulation of hair production sebum.
In-office procedures: Chemical peels, microdermabrasion or light treatments.

The importance of monitoring

Treatment of excess sebum under the supervision of a dermatologist is an extensive process:

Regular visits to assess progress and adjust treatment.
Possibility of combining different therapeutic approaches.
Education on skin care and relapse prevention.

Holistic approach

Dermatologists take a holistic perspective on skin health:

Assessment of lifestyle factors and recommendations for diet optimization.
Collaborating with other specialists to address the causes of hormonal imbalances.
Integrating complementary therapies for a more comprehensive approach.

In conclusion, while many problems related to excess sebum can be managed with home care, there are situations where the expertise of a dermatologist is essential. Recognizing the signs that indicate the need for professional consultation and seeking help can prevent complications. By combining medical care with self-care strategies, you can achieve optimal control over sebum production and maintain healthy skin in the long term.

Treatments and methods for controlling excess sebum

hydrafacial

Hydrafacial is a non-invasive treatment, ideal for deep cleansing, exfoliation and hydration. This treatment uses vacuum technology to remove impurities from pores, being beneficial for acne-prone skin as it reduces excess sebum and calms inflammation. The procedure is quick, painless and offers immediately visible results, leaving the skin clean and revitalized.

Dermapen

Dermapen or microneedling therapy stimulates cell regeneration and collagen production by creating microchannels in the skin. This procedure is recommended for improving skin texture. The treatment helps to even out the complexion, being effective in managing skin affected by excess sebum.

co2 laser

This laser creates controlled microlesions that stimulate tissue regeneration, smoothing the skin's surface. The results are long-lasting, and the procedure is recommended for patients who want a solution to treat scars, but also to improve skin texture.

chemical peeling

Chemical peels consist of applying acidic solutions that remove the superficial layer of dead cells and promote skin regeneration. They are recommended for treating skin that is experiencing excess sebum, but also for its evenness. Chemical peeling improves the overall appearance of the skin, with visible results from the first sessions.

Skincare consultation

During the skincare consultation, our dermatologists provide personalized care plans, recommending products appropriate for each patient's skin type and specific needs. This consultation is essential to build an effective routine, reducing the risk of new breakouts and improving skin health.

LeaveMD

LeaveMD by Lutronic is an innovative thulium laser that creates microchannels in the skin, facilitating the deep absorption of specially dedicated active substances. This treatment is gentle and effective, allowing the application of serums and active ingredients, which creates a uniform and healthy appearance of the skin.

Skincare routine to reduce sebum

A proper cleansing routine, the use of an astringent toner, and a serum with salicylic acid can help regulate sebum.

Recommended products and effective active ingredients for skin care

Salicylic acid

It is an essential ingredient in treating acne-prone skin. With its exfoliating properties, it helps remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, thus preventing clogged pores. Salicylic acid also reduces excessive sebum production, contributing to a matte and smooth appearance of the skin.

Niacinamide (vitamin B3)

This active ingredient is known for its ability to regulate sebum production, thus reducing the risk of pimples and enlarged pores. In addition, niacinamide has soothing effects, reducing inflammation and irritation, visibly improving texture and evens out skin tone.

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