Sebum, an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands, plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin. Four key functions of sebum are:
1. Skin Lubrication and Hydration:
Sebum acts as a natural lubricant, keeping the skin and hair supple and preventing dryness and cracking. It forms a protective barrier that helps retain moisture, preventing excessive water loss from the skin surface. This is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing irritation. [Reference: Sebaceous Glands: Function, Location & Secretion, Cleveland Clinic]
2. Antimicrobial Protection:
Sebum possesses antimicrobial properties, helping to protect the skin against harmful bacteria and fungi. It contains components that inhibit the growth of pathogens, thus contributing to the skin's natural defense system. [Reference: What is sebum? Function, production, benefits, and more, Medical News Today; Sebum, DermNet NZ]
3. Antioxidant Delivery:
Sebum delivers antioxidants, such as tocopherol (vitamin E), to the upper layers of the skin. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, protecting skin cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and contributing to overall skin health. [Reference: The functions of sebum, some of which were mentioned above, include lubrication of skin and hair, maintenance of skin hydration, antimicrobial effects, antioxidant delivery (eg, tocopherol) into upper skin layers, and innate immune responses (pattern receptor recognition , antimicrobial peptide activity) (12,43).14-Dec-2023]
4. Innate Immune Response:
Sebum participates in the skin's innate immune response. It contains molecules that help recognize and fight pathogens, supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms against infection. [Reference: The functions of sebum, some of which were mentioned above, include lubrication of skin and hair, maintenance of skin hydration, antimicrobial effects, antioxidant delivery (eg, tocopherol) into upper skin layers, and innate immune responses (pattern receptor recognition , antimicrobial peptide activity) (12,43).14-Dec-2023]
