Sebum

What It Is

An oily, waxy substance produced and secreted by sebaceous glands — primarily composed of triglycerides, wax esters, squalene, and cholesterol. Sebum plays important roles in skin health: it contributes to the acid mantle, provides mild antimicrobial protection, and delivers fat-soluble antioxidants (Vitamin E, squalene) to the skin surface. Overproduction (driven by androgens, diet, stress, and humidity) leads to oily skin, enlarged pores, and acne. Sebum quality matters as much as quantity — sebum deficient in linoleic acid is thicker and more comedogenic.

Key Context

Sebum production is regulated by androgenic hormones (primarily DHT), niacinamide, zinc, and — counterintuitively — adequate moisturisation. Stripping the skin of all oil triggers a compensatory increase in sebum production.

Learn More

• Oily Skin Routine
• Niacinamide Benefits