Foods rich in zinc like oysters, nuts, legumes, and whole grains help control excess sebum production as well. Staying hydrated is equally important to keep sebaceous glands functioning optimally. Drink sufficient water throughout the day. Dehydration conversely can stimulate oil glands.
Overproduction. Sebum production varies in response to age-related hormone fluctuations, certain medications, and lifestyle factors. An overproduction of sebum can lead to oily skin. People with oily skin may notice that their pores look larger, and their skin appears greasy or shiny.
Vitamin A is well knowns to reduce sebum production when taken orally as a retinoid medication.
Regular use of a BHA (beta hydroxy acid) exfoliant for sebaceous filaments can really help, because BHA is oil-soluble and can dissolve sebum and other substances crowding the pore lining. Use of a well-formulated clay face mask for sebaceous filaments might also help due to the clay's oil-absorbing properties.
Sometimes known as 'riboflavin' vitamin B2 deficiency is often linked to oily skin, although low levels of B2 are uncommon in Western countries like the US and UK.
The antioxidant polyphenols in green tea could help treat various skin conditions, including oily skin. Although more research is necessary, one 2017 review found that the polyphenols in green tea may reduce sebum secretion.
Isotretinoin is a treatment for severe acne that comes in capsules. It has a number of beneficial effects: it helps normalise sebum and reduce how much is produced. it helps prevent follicles becoming clogged.
High-dose vitamins B6 and B12 have also been linked to rosacea fulminans, a condition that looks like acne. Rosacea is marked by large red bumps and pustules that typically appear on the nose, chin, and/or cheeks.
Fatty Fish
Omega-3 fatty acids also play an integral role in controlling sebum production and helping manage oily skin better. Fatty or oily fish, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, and herring, are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and should be a part of your diet if you have oily skin.
Steam. Steam is a gentle and effective way to unclog your pores, loosen the sebum trapped in your pores, and eliminate unwanted bacteria.
Research shows that oily skin also produces more melanin and skin rich in melanin is less affected by ageing caused because of sun damage. While these factors may help in anti-ageing for oily skin, there is much more to it. It is said that oily skin doesn't develop wrinkles easily because of the production of oil.
Topical retinoids, isotretinoin, spironolactone, oral contraceptives, and botulinum toxin may help in the reduction in sebum production. However, the risks and benefits of these options, as they apply to you, should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Zinc helps the work of vitamin A, one of the most effective vitamins for restoring skin health and regulating sebum production. It's also known to help balance sebum production by decreasing the number of androgens in the body.
Regular skin cleansing accompanied by the use of moisturisers adapted to oily skin can help control sebum levels and prevent pores from becoming clogged.
Apple cider vinegar can be used to treat acne and blemishes. Thanks to its antimicrobial power—due to the presence of malic acid—it regulates the production of sebum, helping to fight pimples and blackheads.
Drinking plenty of water balances the water and oil content on your facial skin, preventing the buildup of excess oil and sebum and resulting in fewer clogged pores and breakouts. Adult acne is becoming more common these days, due to our busy lifestyles, air pollution, and lack of focus on hydration.
Try Salicylic Acid
In addition to cleaning away excess sebum, salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that help calm acne breakouts. It can also prevent future breakouts. The dirt and oil in your pores might lead to blackheads and whiteheads. Salicylic acid can clear out debris that collects in your pores.
Vitamin D decreased sebum production after treatment of sebocytes with P. acnes in our study. It was reported that treatment of slowly proliferating SZ95 sebocytes with vitamin D results in a statistically significant time- and dose-dependent reduction of sebum lipids8.
The deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause specific skin manifestations, such as hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, angular stomatitis, and hair and nail changes [1].
Testosterone can stimulate sebum production, leading to acne and oily skin. Progesterone – This hormone can increase oil production in the skin, leading to acne and oily skin. Cortisol – The adrenal glands produce cortisol in response to stress.