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Why is my skin producing so much sebum?

Why is my skin producing so much sebum?

WHAT CAUSES AN EXCESS OF SEBUM? If your skin is very oily, your body may be producing too much sebum, leading to skin conditions like acne and breakouts. The main cause of an overproduction of sebum is hormonal imbalances, including as a result of puberty and pregnancy.

What skin conditions cause overly active oil glands?

Seborrhoea (or seborrhea) is the name given to excessively oily skin. It is due to overactive sebaceous glands and can affect both males and females. The oil produced by the skin is called sebum.

Which disorder can be caused by an overproduction of sebum?

Enlarged sebaceous glands cause sebaceous hyperplasia. These glands become enlarged when the cells that form the gland, known as sebocytes, overgrow and overproduce sebum. This leads to a buildup of oil. A genetic condition called Muir-Torre syndrome can also cause sebaceous hyperplasia in rare cases.

How do I stop the overproduction of sebum on my face?

Treatment

  1. Wash regularly. Share on Pinterest Washing with warm water and a gentle soap can reduce the amount of oil on the skin.
  2. Use a toner. Astringent toners that contain alcohol tend to dry out the skin.
  3. Pat the face dry.
  4. Use blotting papers and medicated pads.
  5. Use a facial mask.
  6. Apply moisturizers.

What can I take to reduce sebum production?

Hormonal medications such as antiandrogens could be effective in reducing sebum production. In one study , dermatologists used spironolactone to treat oily skin in females. They found that their skin produced less sebum. Other research also found that cyproterone acetate reduced sebum production in females.

What is overactive sebaceous glands?

Sebaceous hyperplasia occurs when the sebaceous glands become enlarged with trapped sebum. This creates shiny bumps on the skin, especially the face. The bumps are harmless, but some people like to treat them for cosmetic reasons.

How can I reduce sebum glands?

What happens when there is too much sebum in the skin?

An excess of sebum, dead skin cells, and dirt trapped inside pores can also lead to acne. Conversely, when not enough sebum is produced, the skin becomes dry.

What does sebum do to your hair follicles?

Sebum tends to rise to the surface through pores around your hair follicles. Sebum helps lubricate and protect your skin, essentially waterproofing it. When your glands are producing just the right amount of sebum, your skin looks healthy, but not shiny. Too little sebum can lead to dry, cracking skin.

What causes sebum plugs on the face and chin?

When a sebum plug forms, bacteria that normally lives harmlessly on the surface of your skin can start to grow within the follicle. Inflammation follows, causing a breakout. Sebum plugs commonly form on the forehead and chin. And because nose pores tend to be large, when they become even partially clogged, plugs can be even more noticeable.

Are there any medications that suppress the production of sebum?

Some medications for treating acne and oily skin work by suppressing sebum production; these include oral contraceptives, anti-androgens, and prescription retinoids (both orally and topical). If you have normal sebum levels to start with, you should be cautious using these medications.

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