Oil Glands of the Scalp

Oil glands are part of your body's integumentary system and serve as protection from germs, lubricate for hair and skin. The gland secretes oil into the follicle and coats the hair strand with a thin layer of oil. The oil coating prevents excessive evaporation of water from the hair shaft, which keeps it soft and flexible. When the cuticle is filled with this oil, the surface reflects light evenly which makes the hair look shiny and healthy.

1-Androgen: secreted by adrenal gland

2-Estrogen: secreted by ovaries

The two hormones are usually secreted in fixed ratio, but if more of the androgens are produced, the balance is upset, which causes more oil to be secreted. If this happens to the hair, it will become more oily and lump.