What is the Role of sebum on your skin? Problems and Solutions

Role of sebum on your skin

Sebum is made by sebaceous glands in the upper skin layer and is released through tiny ducts connected to hair follicles. Sebum plays multiple roles in your skin's health, such as being a natural moisturizer that gives your skin hydration and nourishment. It maintains a thin layer of oil on your skin surface, which prevents your skin from getting dehydrated and dry. 

It also acts as a barrier against external pollutants and protects your skin from harsh situations such as UV rays, pollution, and other environmental factors that can degrade the quality of the skin. Sebum also consists of antimicrobial properties and is rich in fatty acids that can help your skin avoid bacterial or fungal infections. It maintains the skin breakout-free, keeps you away from dryness, and always maintains softness and shine to your skin.

When does sebum become a problem for your skin?

Sebum generally helps in maintaining the skin texture even and keeps your skin hydrated and nourished and prevents it from damage. But if it is not maintained properly there are two ways in which it can be problematic:

- Increased sebum production:

1. Seborrheic Dermatitis:

Excess sebum can leads to seborrheic dermatitis by promoting the growth of Malassezia yeast which is produced in oily conditions. This yeast can disrupt the normal skin barrier and lead to itching and irritation.

2. Acne and Enlarged Pores:

Increased sebum production often leads to the excessive production of lipids that can mix with dead skin cells, results clogged pores. This environment is conducive to the proliferation of Propionibacterium acnes and also increases whir and black heads. 

3. Dandruff and Scalp Issues:

Increased Sebum production can also cause itching on the scalp and other oily areas such as the face and chest. These infections required some special attention. 

- Decreased sebum production:

1. Dry Skin and Premature Aging:

Decreased Sebum Production is the main cause of dry and flaky skin. It can later on lead to fine lines and wrinkles which is the part of pre mature aging. 

2. Atopic Dermatitis and Eczema:

Decreased sebum production can affect the skin's ability to retain moisture and maintain a proper hydrophobic barrier. This can lead to atopic dermatitis, where reduced sebum levels are linked to a degradation of the skin barrier. You can feel irritation, allergens, infections, dryness, and inflammation. 

 Tips to manage sebum production on your skin:

There are several ways in which you can maintain the Sebum production in your skin effectively, some of the most common ways are mentioned below:

1. Use gentle cleansers:

Choose sulphate and paraben free cleansers, which can clean your skin deeply without even affecting the natural oils such as sebum production on your skin. Use light gel based moisturizer to maintain the skin hydration effectively.  

2. Use the right serums:

Serums as per skin type work well in maintaining the right amount of sebum on your skin. If you have dry skin then opt for hydrating serums such as Hyalornoic serums and if you have oily skin then opt for serums containing salicylic acid which helps in maintaining an adequate amount of sebum on your skin. 

3. Protect your skin from Sun damage:

Use sunscreen whenever you are exposed to the sun. UV radiation can degrade the quality of the skin and can exceed sebum production which can later on lead to Seborrheic Dermatitis along with acnes and breakouts. 

3. Use Non-Comedogenic Products:

Choose products that are free from comedogenic substances. These products are formulated to avoid blocking pores and causing acne, which is especially important for managing oily skin.

4. Stay hydrated and nourished:

Always stay hydrated and drink a lot of water to keep yourself energetic and nourished which helps in flushing out the toxins that can affect sebum production which can later on lead to clogged pores. 

Conclusion

Sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands located in the upper dermis of the skin, which is the second layer. Proper sebum production is important for maintaining skin quality and shiny texture. Imbalances in sebum levels, whether excessive production or decreased production, can lead to a variety of skin issues such as Atopic Dermatitis and Eczema and Seborrheic Dermatitis. You can manage the sebum production through the right skincare and a good lifestyle.