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Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. These glands are mainly located near hair follicles and are particularly numerous on the face, scalp and upper body. Sebum plays an important role in skin health by keeping the skin and hair supple and forming a natural protective film that helps to retain moisture and protect the skin from bacterial and fungal infections.
The production of sebum is regulated by various hormones, with sex hormones such as testosterone, oestrogen and progesterone playing a particularly important role. Testosterone, a hormone found in both men and women, but in higher quantities in men, increases sebum production. Estrogens and progesterone, which are found in higher concentrations in women, can influence sebum production, although the exact effect depends on the balance of these hormones and their relationship to testosterone levels.
An overproduction of sebum can lead to skin problems such as acne, as excess sebum together with dead skin cells can clog the pores. On the other hand, insufficient sebum production can lead to dry skin and hair, which in turn brings its own set of skin problems. The regulation of sebum production is therefore essential for maintaining healthy skin.
