What is Sebum Made Of?
Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands located in the skin, near hair follicles. It's a complex mixture of lipids (fats) crucial for skin health.
Sebum is primarily composed of:
- Wax esters: These are a significant component of sebum, contributing to its oily texture.
- Triglycerides: Another major component, triglycerides are types of fats that also play a role in sebum's properties.
- Squalene: This hydrocarbon is a natural component of sebum, helping to moisturize and protect the skin.
- Free fatty acids: These fatty acids contribute to the overall composition of sebum and play a role in skin's barrier function.
- Cholesterol and its esters: Cholesterol and its esters are also found in sebum, contributing to its complex lipid profile.
In addition to these primary components, sebum also contains smaller amounts of other lipids, such as:
- Glycerol esters
- Other waxes
The exact composition of sebum can vary depending on factors like age, genetics, and hormonal changes.
This complex mixture works to lubricate the skin and hair, preventing dryness and providing a barrier against environmental stressors. The balance of these components is important for healthy skin; imbalances can contribute to conditions like acne.
