What Is the Function of Sebum?
Sebaceous glands, microscopic glands in the skin, produce sebum. Though an excess of this natural oil is troublesome, sebum serves several beneficial functions.
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Identification
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Sebum is a mixture of waxes and fats. After the sebaceous gland duct secretes sebum, the sebum moves up a hair follicle to the skin surface.
Lubricant
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The main function of sebum is to lubricate the hair and skin and keep them from drying out.
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Protection
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Sebum is part of the acid mantle, which is a protective layer on the skin consisting of sebum and sweat. It protects the skin from harsh environmental conditions.
Cleaner
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As sebum moves along the hair follicle, it picks up dead skin cells that may be in the follicle, and deposits them on the skin where they can be washed away.
Disorders
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An excess of sebum can lead to acne, especially in teens when hormone levels are increased. Diminished production of sebum can be problematic in middle and older individuals, as it can cause skin dryness and wrinkles.
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