Understanding Sebum

Understanding your sebum is essential to a healthy, clear complexion. Sebum is a thick, waxy oil produced by our sebaceous glands, located alongside our hair follicles. Its role is to keep skin hydrated and protected. Excess sebum is related to hormonal imbalances, specifically testosterone, and is the main culprit in causing acne as it can easily plug up hair follicles and give skin a greasy feel. 

Gentle Exfoliation

Excess skin cells can stick to sebum and congest skin. Supporting this function of the skin with a natural exfoliant is a simple way to keep pores clear and prevent breakouts. We recommend using our Olive & Lotus Exfoliant 1 - 2 times per week.

Treat with Linoleic Acid

Studies show that acne-prone skin tends to be deficient in this essential fatty acid, which makes the sebum thicker and more sticky and more likely to clog pores. Rosehip and Sea Buckthorn are abundant with linoleic acid, key ingredients of our Face Oil.

Oil Cleansing

Oil cleansing has the dual benefits of being gentle enough to not disurpt your microbiome while powerful enough to remove makeup, excess sebum, spf, and any impurities. Gel and foaming cleansers all contain ingredients intended to remove impurities, but also strips skin in the process which can kill beneficial microorganisms or dry out skin.

Green Tea

EGCG found in green tea reduces the size of the sebaceous glands, reduces inflammation, and helps address hormonal imbalance issues that can contribute to excess sebum production. Make green tea a staple in your diet and use as a topical treatment, it's a key ingredient in our Olive & Lotus Exfoliant.

Jojoba

Jojoba mimics our natural sebum, which helps restore balance to the over or under production of natural oils. It’s nature’s solution to the conundrum of “combition skin” and helps oil production naturally find equilibrium.