Sebum production – How the skin regulates its oil

Sebum production is a natural process that supplies the skin with essential lipids, protecting it from dehydration and maintaining its elasticity. If the sebaceous glands produce too much or too little sebum, skin problems such as oily skin, acne, or dryness can occur. Proper sebum management and skincare are crucial for healthy skin.

How is tallow formed?

Sebum is produced in the sebaceous glands and reaches the skin's surface via the hair follicles. It consists of lipids such as fatty acids, squalene, and wax esters and forms a protective film on the skin. This film helps protect the skin from moisture loss and harmful environmental influences. Sebum also ensures supple skin and hair surfaces ( Dermasence ).

What influences sebum production?

• Hormones: In particular, androgens (male sex hormones) promote sebum production. This explains why adolescents during puberty and adults during certain phases (e.g., pregnancy, menstruation) can have more oily skin ( MH Plus ).
• Diet: A diet high in fat and sugar can stimulate sebum production and lead to skin problems ( Onmeda ).
• Skincare habits: Too frequent cleansing or the use of harsh products can dry out the skin, leading to an overproduction of sebum. Conversely, insufficient skincare can disrupt sebum production and dry out the skin.

Too much sebum – what to do about oily skin.

Oily skin occurs when the sebaceous glands produce too much oil. This can lead to shiny skin and clogged pores, increasing the risk of acne. Skincare that regulates sebum production without drying out the skin is helpful. Products containing zinc, salicylic acid, or niacinamide are recommended ( NetDoktor ).

Too little sebum – what to do about dry skin?

Too little sebum leads to dry skin and a weakened skin barrier. The skin feels rough and tight and can react more quickly to irritation. Lipid-rich care with ceramides, squalane, or plant oils is necessary to regenerate the skin and strengthen its protective barrier ( Barmer ).

Care recommendations for balanced sebum production

• Cleansing: Use mild, pH-neutral cleansers that do not dry out the skin or remove too much sebum.
• Serums: Moisturizing serums with hyaluronic acid and zinc help to regulate sebum flow and soothe the skin.
• Creams: For oily skin, choose a slightly mattifying but moisturizing cream. For dry skin, opt for a richer texture with lipids.
• Exfoliation: A gentle peeling removes dead skin cells and prevents clogged pores without irritating the skin.

In combination with NATURFACTOR® care

The Porcelain Skin Serum is ideal for balancing the appearance of oily skin. It combines moisturizing hyaluronic acid with soothing and sebum-regulating plant extracts. When used with the Blue Crystal Drops, it stabilizes the sebum balance and provides optimal skin care.

Conclusion

Healthy sebum production is crucial for a healthy complexion. Too much or too little sebum can exacerbate skin problems, but the right care can restore balance. Focus on a balanced skincare routine that moisturizes and regulates sebum flow to prevent skin problems in the long run.

Sources

1. Dermasence – Sebaceous glands and their influence on skin health
2. MH Plus – Hormonal Skin Changes
3. Onmeda – Oily skin: Causes and treatment
4. NetDoktor – How to properly treat oily skin
5. Barmer – Oily Skin: Causes & Care

Tags: sebum production, oily skin, dry skin, skincare, skin balance, moisture