5 Things You Need to Know About Sebaceous Glands

1. Where Does Oily Skin Come From Anyway?

Sebaceous glands are found over the entire body, either under hair follicles or under pores, and secrete an oil called sebum, which helps to keep skin moisturized and healthy. Sebum itself is a mixture of fat and dead cells that produced fat and is essential to prevent dry, cracking, itchy skin and for healthy hair. Additionally, the natural oils found on the skin protect us from bacteria and other foreign substances from entering the body while keeping water in.

2. Overactive Sebaceous Glands Are More Than a Nuisance

Excess sebum can be present on the skin due to poor hygiene, a diet high in fats, stress or because of accelerated glandular activity. Acne may be one of the most common symptoms of overactive sebaceous glands and presents itself as whiteheads, blackheads and other forms of acne. Acne due to overactive sebaceous glands is common in adolescence but can effect people of any age. In addition to acne, accelerated glandular activity can cause a variety of skin disorders and even certain forms of hair loss.

3. The Dangers of Dry Skin

Sebaceous glands can also become underactive. In fact, infants are often afflicted with dry skin, as their glands have not yet properly formed, and as we age, the glands begin to produce less sebum. If the sebaceous glands do not work as they should, skin can become dry, flaky and thick and becomes even more sensitive to weather, sun and other factors. Additionally, chemicals present in beauty products or those found in our environment as well as excess exposure to water can reduce the production of sebum.

4. Keeping Your Glands in Good Working Order

Protecting your glands and keeping them clean is an important part of skin care, as it can help to cure acne, prevent wrinkles and keep your skin healthy. Always use mild soaps, shampoos and lotions free of harsh perfumes, wash your face twice daily with mild soap and then protect your skin with a moisturizing lotion with at least SPF 15. If you suffer from acne, products with alpha-hydroxy acids help to exfoliate the skin and clean build-up in sebaceous glands. If you have dry skin, olive oil is the best moisturizer as it mimics the skins natural oils without clogging pores.

5. Getting Rid of Acne for Good

While acne is not life threatening, it can affect self-esteem and leave scars, both physical and emotional. If you have been diagnosed with overactive sebaceous glands, a treatment called photodynamic therapy can help. In this process, a cream called ALA is applied to the skin and allowed to set for several hours. Over time, the overactive glands become sensitive to specific lightwaves and can be pinpointed and removed. The procedure is not fast and easy and often requires up to 2 weeks recovery and a repeat session one year after the first but can be a final end to your acne nightmare.