Why am I producing so much sebum on my face?

Author: Flo Friesen  |  Last update: Saturday, May 31, 2025

Hormones such as testosterone stimulate the sebaceous glands and cause them to increase in size and ramp up sebum secretion. During puberty, rising testosterone levels lead to a surge in sebum production. This stimulatory effect of androgens is why excess sebum and acne flare-ups often start during the teen years.

How to stop sebum production on face?

Methods for making the skin less oily
  1. Cleansing regularly. ...
  2. Limiting alcohol use. ...
  3. Using salicylic acid products. ...
  4. Using blotting papers or medicated pads. ...
  5. Moisturizing regularly. ...
  6. Making a facial mask. ...
  7. Using products with green tea. ...
  8. Making dietary changes.

Why is my face suddenly producing so much sebum?

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.

What deficiency causes excess sebum?

Vitamin D seems to inhibit sebocyte proliferation, differentiation, and sebum secretion, all of which are key factors in the production of sebum.

What hormonal imbalance causes excess sebum?

The sebaceous glands are particularly sensitive to hormones. It's thought that increased levels of testosterone cause the glands to produce much more sebum than the skin needs.

What foods increase sebum production?

What foods trigger sebum production?

Topping the list is dairy, which can lead to increased sebum production and inflammation. Dairy products can also contain hormones that can trigger breakouts. Other foods that made the list include sugar, fried foods, chocolate, and nuts.

How do you stop sebum buildup?

How to help reduce sebum production: 6 ways to control sebum for balanced skin
  1. Keep your skin clean and pick the right cleansers. ...
  2. Use moisturizers that won't make you greasy. ...
  3. Make lifestyle changes for balanced sebum. ...
  4. Try effective topical treatments. ...
  5. Explore over-the-counter options for sebum control.

Why is my face so oily no matter what I do?

Oily skin can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, weather, stress, and hormones. Washing with an overly aggressive cleanser can also irritate your skin and potentially trigger increased oil production, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

What vitamins reduce oil production?

There are many different types of B vitamins that protect the skin, but B6 and B12 vitamins are good for oily skin and excessive sebum production.

Does oily skin age better?

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.

What condition is due to an excessive production of sebum?

Acne — often associated with excessive sebum

The sebaceous gland consists of lobes connected by ducts, which are lined with cells similar to those on the skin surface. Most sebaceous glands open out into the hair follicle.

How can I reduce sebum overproduction on my face?

Below is a skin care routine that may help reduce oiliness.
  1. Use a gentle cleanser. Washing the skin with a cleanser can remove excess oil. ...
  2. Use a toner. Toners are liquids that people apply after cleansing. ...
  3. Apply a moisturizer. ...
  4. Wear sunscreen. ...
  5. Use blotting papers.

When I squeeze my nose pores, white stuff comes out.?

If a person squeezes or 'extracts' a sebaceous filament, a white or yellow worm-like structure may ooze out. Or, the filament may not produce anything. Trying to extract sebaceous filaments can injure the skin and cause scarring. It can also damage and stretch the pore, making it appear bigger.

What is the best face wash for sebaceous filaments?

CeraVe Renewing Salicylic Acid Cleanser, Formulated With Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, & Ceramides, Gentle BHA Exfoliating Face Wash Smooths & Softens Skin, Non Comedogenic & Fragrance Free, 8 Ounce.

What deficiency causes oily face?

A deficiency of vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) can also lead to oily skin. Therefore, include sources of riboflavin in your diet like Spinach, wheat germ and chickpeas, or simply take a B complex supplement containing zinc. Zinc has been proven to be helpful for healthy skin. A zinc deficiency can cause acne and oily skin.

Which face wash is best for oily skin?

  • Ubtan Face Wash 150 ml (Pack of 2) ...
  • Tea Tree Foaming Face Wash with Tea Tree and Salicylic Acid for Acne and Pimples - 150ml. ...
  • Tea Tree Oil Control Face Wash, 100ml. ...
  • Vitamin C Foaming Face Wash Combo Pack with Refill - 150ml + 150ml. ...
  • Neem Pimple Clear Face Wash with Neem & Salicylic Acid – 150 ml.

How to get rid of clogged oil glands on face naturally?

If you want to try an over-the-counter treatment first, look for creams with retinol or vitamin A as an active ingredient. Retinol helps prevent clogging of your pores with too much oil.

What is the fastest way to remove sebum?

Steam. Steam is a gentle and effective way to unclog your pores, loosen the sebum trapped in your pores, and eliminate unwanted bacteria.

Which shampoo is best for sebum control?

Products that provide the solution
  • Scalp Therapies Solv-X Shampoo. This shampoo is designed to address excessive sebum production on the scalp, oily scalp, or acne.
  • Sabal Shampooing Traitant Séboréducteur. ...
  • Botéa Elements Scalp Control Sebum Control Shampoo. ...
  • Kérastase Specifique Bain Vital Dermo-Calm.

When I scratch my head, I get white stuff under my nails.?

Not only does your scalp have a plethora of sweat glands, but it also has an abundance of sebaceous (oil) glands, which produce oily sebum. Have you ever scratched your scalp and noticed white, waxy buildup under your nails? That's sebum mixed with dead skin cells.

Why am I suddenly producing more sebum?

Over-cleansing might make your skin produce more oil, especially if you have acne-prone skin. Aggressive cleaning routines, like scrubbing too hard, can irritate your skin and stimulate your sebaceous glands to produce more sebum as a protective response.

Which moisturizer is best for oily skin?

Moisturizer for Oily Skin
  • Cica & Niacinamide Night Gel for Oily & Acne Prone Skin. ...
  • Watermelon + Glycolic Acid Matte Moisturizer. ...
  • JUST IN. ...
  • BESTSELLER. ...
  • BESTSELLER. ...
  • TOP PICK. ...
  • BESTSELLER. Retinol + Ceramide Night Cream, Pack of 2. ...
  • Cica & Niacinamide Night Gel, Pack of 2. Oily & Acne-Prone Skin.

How to clean your gut for acne?

Four of the most successful include:
  1. Manage stress through relaxation techniques and stress-relief practices.
  2. Get regular exercise to reduce inflammation and support healthy digestion.
  3. Ensure adequate sleep for cell regeneration and toxin elimination.
  4. Consider probiotic supplements to support a healthy gut microbiome.

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