Why Does Sebum Production in Hair Increase or Decrease?

Sebum production in hair sometimes increases and decreases. So, what is sebum and what are the factors that affect sebum production?

What is Sebum?

Sebum is a light colored and waxy substance secreted by the sebaceous glands. While sebum moisturizes the skin, it also protects against external factors and prevents water losses in the skin. Sebum produced by the sebaceous glands in the body consists of 57% triglycerides and fatty acids, 26% wax esters, 12% squalene and 5% cholesterol. Since most sebum is connected to the hair follicle, the sebum produced first goes to the hair follicles and then spreads to the skin and moisturizes the skin. If too much sebum is produced in the body, the pores get clogged and an intense oiliness is observed on the skin surface and hair follicles. As a result of oily skin, problems such as acne may occur on the skin. On the contrary, a small amount of sebum causes dryness on the skin surface. Of course, not all oil in the skin is sebum. External factors such as sweat, dust and dead cells can also cause oil on the skin. Choosing the right shampoo against oily hair helps your hair to get oily in a longer period of time.

What are the Factors that Affect Sebum Production?

Sebum production is controlled by the androgen hormones that exist in the body. The production of androgen and testosterone hormones also change in some periods. For example, as the sebaceous glands of adolescents grow, hormones start to work more actively and thus an increase in sebum production is seen. Sebum may be one of the reasons for acne problems in adolescents. When sebum production is examined by age groups, it is seen that the sebaceous glands become active before people are born. Sebum production starts with birth and is produced intensively for six months. From the sixth month to the adolescence, there is a significant decrease in sebum production compared to the first six months. 500% increase can be experienced during adolescence until adulthood. Sebum production in the body decreases as people get older. Apart from hormonal status and age, another reason that affects sebum production is the existing diseases and drugs used. Situations such as intense work schedule, stress, hunger, and irritable mood can also be factors that affect sebum production and acne formation. For the same reasons, the person may also encounter problems such as hair loss and dandruff. That’s why, when there is an imbalance in sebum production, all these reasons should be examined and right methods should be followed the get rid of the problems.