How Aging Affects Oil Gland Activity
Oil glands, also called sebaceous glands, make sebum, the natural oil that keeps skin soft and protected. These glands sit in the skin and connect to hair follicles. When young, they often work hard, especially during puberty when hormones boost their output. This leads to shiny skin and bigger looking pores in many people.
As years go by, things change. Sebaceous gland activity slows down for most folks. Sebum production drops, so skin that was once oily turns normal or even dry. This shift happens because aging affects how glands respond to hormones and other signals. Fewer androgens, like testosterone, mean less push for oil making.
Around the face and body, this drop shows up clearly. The T-zone, nose, cheeks, and forehead get less greasy. Pores might look smaller at first from less oil stretching them. But over time, other aging effects kick in. Skin loses collagen and elastin, proteins that hold everything firm. Without that support, skin sags around pores, making them seem wider despite lower oil levels.
Not just the face feels it. Delicate spots like around the eyes have fewer oil glands to start with. As age advances, even less oil there leads to dryness and fine lines. Sun damage speeds this up by breaking down skin structure further.
Hormones play a big role too. In women, shifts during menopause can mix things up, but overall gland output trends lower. Men see similar drops with time. Climate and habits matter less as glands naturally quiet down.
Some products, like retinoids used for acne or wrinkles, can shrink glands even more. They cut oil everywhere, including sensitive eyelid glands called meibomian glands. Long term use might cause them to atrophy, or shrink away, which is hard to fix.
Everyone ages differently. Genetics, sun exposure, and skin type influence the pace. Melanin-rich skin starts with more active glands but follows the same decline pattern.
Sources
https://worldofasaya.com/blogs/dehydrated-skin/how-skin-type-changes-a-complete-guide-to-evolution
https://www.kins-clinic.com/blogs/how-to-close-pores-permanently-the-truth-about-what-really-works
https://trophyskin.com/blogs/blog/oily-skin-meaning-signs-causes-how-to-manage-shine
https://luxebeauty.com/a/blog/ah-retinol-a-long-beloved-friend-of-the-skin-care-industry
https://north-wales.refocuseyedoctors.com/article/skin-rejuvenation/
https://worldofasaya.com/blogs/skin-types/7-reasons-melanin-rich-skin-gets-extra-oily
https://www.symrise.com/scent-and-care/cosmetic-ingredients/actives/
