Sebum: what is it and how can it be regulated?

Produced naturally by the skin, sebum helps to protect the skin’s surface and keep it supple. It is when sebum production becomes excessive that imbalances can occur, such as increased shine or more visible pores.

Gaining a better understanding of what sebum is for and why it can be produced in excess enables you to take the right steps to regulate it.

The role of sebum in the skin

Sebum is a substance naturally produced by the skin. Contrary to popular belief, it plays an essential role in maintaining the skin’s balance, in particular by:

- Protecting the skin from external aggressors

- Minimising water loss

- Preserving the skin’s suppleness

- Maintaining a balanced skin barrier

In the right amounts, sebum contributes to the skin’s natural appearance. It helps to protect the skin and ensure it functions properly on a day-to-day basis. It is therefore not sebum itself that is the problem, but an imbalance in its production.

Why does the skin produce excess amounts of it?

Sebum production naturally varies from person to person and at different stages of life. When the skin produces more sebum, this is referred to as oily skin. Several factors can influence this overproduction:

- Skin type, particularly skin prone to oiliness

- Hormonal fluctuations

- Certain external stressors, such as pollution or humidity

- Cleansing that is too frequent or too harsh

When the skin is over-stimulated or dried out, it may react by producing even more sebum to protect itself. This can result in a more pronounced shine, skin that appears oilier and more visible pores.

How can you regulate sebum on a daily basis?

A few simple steps can make all the difference in your daily routine.

1. Cleanse your skin gently

Gently cleansing your face, morning and evening, helps remove excess sebum and impurities without damaging the skin. Cleansers that are too harsh can, on the contrary, stimulate sebum production.

2. Moisturise your skin

Moisturising is an essential step, whatever your skin type. Well-moisturised skin is less likely to produce excess sebum as a protective measure.

3. Choose suitable skincare products

Light, non-greasy textures help to minimise shine whilst meeting the skin’s needs. Skincare products containing niacinamide, for example, can help reduce shine and improve the appearance of the skin and pores.

4. Adopt a simple, consistent routine

Applying your skincare products regularly helps the skin to regulate itself better over time. A daily routine is more effective than occasional treatments.

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