sebum
Quick Summary
Sebum is a fatty substance secreted by sebaceous glands, which are small oil-producing glands in the skin of mammals. These glands are typically attached to hair follicles and release sebum into the follicular duct, which then reaches the skin's surface. Sebum is a complex mixture of lipids, including triglycerides and wax esters, and it helps keep the skin flexible and prevents excessive water loss.12
Sebaceous glands are found all over the body except for the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, being most abundant on the scalp and face. Their activity is influenced by hormones, particularly androgens, and they become active around puberty. Sebum plays a role in the development of acne vulgaris, a common skin condition where the gland's outlet becomes blocked, leading to inflammation.123
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- acne
…consists of a plug of sebum (the fatty substance secreted by a sebaceous gland), cell debris, and microorganisms (especially the bacterium Propionibacterium acnes) filling up a hair follicle. Comedones may be open, their upper or visible portion being darkened by oxidative changes, or they may be closed (i.e., not reaching…
Read More…consists of a plug of sebum (the fatty substance secreted by a sebaceous gland), cell debris, and microorganisms (especially the bacterium Propionibacterium acnes) filling up a hair follicle. Comedones may be open, their upper or visible portion being darkened by oxidative changes, or they may be closed (i.e., not reaching…
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childhood disease and disorderDisorders associated with adolescence…production of the fatty substance sebum. In susceptible individuals, there is oversecretion of sebum. Sebum and cellular debris then form a plug in the follicle canal, and the growth of bacteria in the plug produces unsightly pustules. Prolonged treatment is often needed.
Read More…production of the fatty substance sebum. In susceptible individuals, there is oversecretion of sebum. Sebum and cellular debris then form a plug in the follicle canal, and the growth of bacteria in the plug produces unsightly pustules. Prolonged treatment is often needed.
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