Causes of Excessive Oily Skin
Excessive oily skin is a common skin condition that is caused by overactive sebaceous glands that produce too much sebum. Sebum is a natural oil that helps keep the skin hydrated, but too much of it can lead to oily skin. Common causes of oily skin include genetics, hormonal imbalance, stress, and certain medications.
Genetics
Some people are genetically predisposed to having oily skin. People with this type of skin condition have overactive sebaceous glands that produce more sebum than is necessary. This can lead to oily skin, clogged pores, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalances can cause an increase in sebum production, resulting in oily skin. This is especially true for women during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. When these hormones fluctuate, the oil glands become more active, producing more sebum than is necessary.
Stress
Stress can also cause an increase in sebum production, resulting in oily skin. When the body is under stress, it releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can cause the oil glands to become overactive.
Medications
Certain medications can also cause an increase in sebum production. These include steroids, birth control pills, and some acne medications. If you are taking any of these, it is important to talk to your doctor about the possibility of oily skin as a side effect.
Treatment of Excessive Oily Skin
There are a variety of treatments available for excessive oily skin. Some of these include over-the-counter products, such as cleansers and moisturizers, as well as prescription medications. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and avoiding certain foods, can help reduce the symptoms of oily skin.