Oily Skin

Oily skin is a common condition resulting from the over production of sebum. This is made in the sebaceous glands (SG), which is part of the pilosebaceous unit. This can also lead to problems with acne.  Some sebum is necessary, as it provides lipids, glycerol and other components important for keeping the skin hydrated.  It also contains antioxidants to protect the skin from free radicals.  It also has anti-inflammatory effects, antimicrobial properties and helps regulate neurotransmitters and hormones in the skin.

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Multiple hormones, vitamins and other chemicals affect SGs and sebum production.  The most well-known include Cannabinol (CBD), Estrogen, Growth Hormone, Insulin, Retinoids, Testosterone and Vitamin D.  It may be helpful to review usage of these with a provider to determine if they may be a contributing factor to or a possible aid in reducing your skin oiliness.

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Stress is another factor in the overproduction see him in the skin. Corticotropin releasing hormone, also known as though stress hormone, plays a role in this by increasing lipids synthesis and production of testosterone which both result in increased production.  Genetics plays a contributing factor, no not as much as environment.  High glycemic diets increase sebum production.  Ethnicity plays a role as well with higher rates of sebum production noted increasingly in Hispanic, Asian and African Americans compared to Caucasians.

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Skin Care

Using a lighter base moisturizer in either serum or lotion from instead of cream prevents increasing the oiliness of skin.  Hyaluronic is helpful in penetrating the oil and moisturizing. The "T" zone can also be avoided if it is far oilier than the sides of the face.  It may even be reasonable to skip moisturizing in the morning and/or evening. 

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Topical medications such as ketoconazole and spironolactone, as well as progesterone for women may help reduce sebum production.  In more severe cases, the oral retinoid Accutane can be very successful. Intradermal botulinum toxin has show good results in several studies.