Sebaceous Glands and Your Skin: Everything You Need to Know

Sebaceous glands ('sebum' or 'sebaceous gland') is a term we often come across in the skincare world.This is because they are often associated with the development of pimples and blackheads. But what exactly is the deal with these sebaceous glands?

Something we often encounter in skincare jargon is the word 'sebum' or 'sebaceous gland'. This is because they are often associated with the development of pimples and blackheads. But what exactly is the deal with these sebaceous glands? How do they work, what do they do, and how do you ensure they continue to function properly?

In this blog, you will read everything you need to know about sebaceous glands. 

Sebaceous glands are small organs in the skin that are not visible to the naked eye, they produce an oily substance: sebum. Sebum is something that keeps your skin and hair smooth, in addition, sebum also makes the skin more water repellent. Sebaceous glands are part of the integumentary system, which consists of your skin, hair, nails, and other structures that help protect the body from environmental or physical damage.

They are located in the dermis, which is the second layer of skin (also called the dermis). Most sebaceous glands are located near hairs. Think of the scalp, your face, on your back and chest. You won't find them on your palms and soles of your feet.

In the sebaceous gland, there is a gland cell. When gland cells develop, they store large amounts of fat inside the cell. At a certain point, the entire cell interior is replaced by fat, and the cell nucleus also disappears. As a result, the cell dies and bursts open.

The remaining fat is also called sebum. It is a mixture of fats and cell residues. The sebum then reaches the skin through the drainage tubes and pores.

In addition to retaining moisture and regulating skin temperature, sebum also contains squalene and other substances that prevent bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms from causing infections. 

The production of sebum is influenced by a number of factors, particularly age and hormones play a big role in this. When you hit puberty, sebum production peaks, this is caused by an increase in male hormones (androgens). This increase and the emergence of dead skin cells can clog the pores.Excess sebum can result in blackheads and pimples.

From the age of about 20, sebum production stagnates, and slows down as we get older. This may make the skin somewhat drier and less elastic. The slowdown often goes hand in hand with a decrease in the production of androgen. 

Due to the decrease, your skin also retains moisture less well. The loss of moisture, combined with the decrease in collagen and keratin, can lead to dry skin (xerosis cutis) and brittle hair.

Our pores cleanse themselves, but they can become clogged. Accumulated sebum or other dirt can be the cause of this. As a result, bacteria can spread well and a pimple can develop.

As more pimples develop, this triggers a reaction from the immune system. The skin becomes red and inflammations occur, as the body tries to get the infection under control. 

Teenagers are most vulnerable to acne during puberty, as they undergo the most severe hormonal changes that increase sebum production. Acne can also have other causes, such as hormonal changes caused by contraception or diet. 

Despite the fact that genes and hormones play a major role in the functioning of our sebaceous glands, there are a few things you can do to keep them functioning properly. This reduces the chance of pimples. 

  1  Use a good and mild cleanser.Aggressive cleansers can cause more problems, despite you might think they make your pores 'cleaner'. In fact, they make your skin dry and can cause flaking, which increases the chance of clogged pores.

  2  Use a good moisturizer. This can replenish the moisture that your sebaceous glands can no longer replenish, improving the health of your skin. Pay close attention to which type of moisturizer suits your skin. (Tip: at Olivida we sell a wide range of moisturizers for all skin types: Order Day Cream – Skincare from A-Brands & For every Budget ).

  3  Drink enough water! Drinking too little water could cause your sebum to thicken.In addition, drinking water has many other benefits for your health and skin. Try to drink 2 liters of water per day. 

Time to work on healthier skin? We at Olivida.nl believe that this starts at home with the use of the right products! We have an extensive range of all kinds of products, including day creams and SPF

Our products are only from salon brands, which means they contain higher concentrations of active ingredients. In this way, the products can really do something for your skin.

Every skin is different, we understand that too. Therefore, ask for our free online skin advice via chat or SkinQuiz. Our skin specialist looks at the needs of your skin, and advises the products that suit you best.What are you waiting for? 

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