Sebum Control Without Barrier Compromise: The Indian Oily Skin Protocol

The over-cleansing rebound cycle

Removing surface sebum below a threshold triggers keratinocyte signalling that upregulates 5-alpha reductase and androgen-sensitive lipid synthesis in sebocytes. Sebometry studies show that skin stripped to <0.5 mg/cm² sebum will "rebound" to elevated sebum levels 2–3× baseline within 48 hours — a measurably worse starting point.

The oil-balancing protocol

Cleanse twice daily maximum with a pH-balanced (5.5), surfactant-mild cleanser. If skin feels tight after cleansing, the cleanser is too harsh — switch immediately. The goal is to remove excess sebum and environmental residue without stripping. Add jojoba oil (most structurally similar to human sebum) in dry areas only — paradoxically reduces overall sebum production by 35% at 4 weeks via negative feedback.

Key ingredients · Evidence summary