# Sebaceous gland

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Gland to lubricate the hair and skin

"Oil gland" redirects here. For the secretion of oil by [preening](/source/Preening) of birds, see [Uropygial gland](/source/Uropygial_gland).

"Sebaceous" redirects here; not to be confused with [Sebaceous adenitis](/source/Sebaceous_adenitis) or [Sebaceous filaments](/source/Sebaceous_filaments).

Schematic view of hair follicle and sebaceous gland Cross-section of all skin layers. A hair follicle with associated structures. (Sebaceous glands labeled at center left.) Identifiers MeSH D012627 TA98 A16.0.00.030 A15.2.07.044 TA2 7082 FMA 59160 Anatomical terminology [edit on Wikidata]

A **sebaceous gland** or **oil gland**[1] is a microscopic [exocrine](/source/Exocrine) [gland](/source/Gland) in the [skin](/source/Skin) that opens into a [hair follicle](/source/Hair_follicle) to secrete an oily or waxy matter, called [sebum](#Sebum), which lubricates the hair and skin of [mammals](/source/Mammals).[2] In humans, sebaceous glands occur in the greatest number on the [face](/source/Face) and [scalp](/source/Scalp), but also on all parts of the skin except the palms of the [hands](/source/Hands) and [soles](/source/Sole_(foot)) of the [feet](/source/Foot_(anatomy)). In the [eyelids](/source/Eyelid), [meibomian glands](/source/Meibomian_gland), also called tarsal glands, are a type of sebaceous gland that secrete a special type of sebum into [tears](/source/Tears). Surrounding the female [nipples](/source/Nipple), [areolar glands](/source/Areolar_gland) are specialized sebaceous glands for lubricating the nipples. [Fordyce spots](/source/Fordyce_spots) are benign, visible, sebaceous glands found usually on the [lips](/source/Lip), [gums](/source/Gums) and inner [cheeks](/source/Cheek), and [genitals](/source/Sex_organ).

## Structure

### Location

In humans, sebaceous glands are found throughout all areas of the skin, except the palms of the [hands](/source/Hands) and [soles](/source/Sole_(foot)) of the [feet](/source/Foot).[3] There are two types of sebaceous gland: those connected to [hair follicles](/source/Hair_follicles) and those that exist independently.[4]

Sebaceous glands are found in hair-covered areas, where they are connected to [hair follicles](/source/Hair_follicles). One or more glands may surround each hair follicle, and the glands themselves are surrounded by [arrector pili muscles](/source/Arrector_pili_muscle), forming a pilosebaceous unit. The glands have an [acinar structure](/source/Acinus) (like a many-lobed berry), in which multiple glands branch off a central duct. The glands deposit sebum on the hairs and bring it to the skin surface along the [hair shaft](/source/Hair_shaft). The structure, consisting of hair, hair follicles, arrector pili muscles and sebaceous glands, is an epidermal invagination known as a *pilosebaceous unit*.[4]

Sebaceous glands are also found in hairless areas ([glabrous skin](/source/Glabrous_skin)) of the [eyelids](/source/Eyelid), [nose](/source/Human_nose), [penis](/source/Penis), [labia minora](/source/Labia_minora), the inner [mucosal](/source/Mucosal) membrane of the [cheek](/source/Cheek) and [nipples](/source/Nipple).[4] Some sebaceous glands have unique names. Sebaceous glands on the lip and mucosa of the cheek and on the genitalia are known as [Fordyce spots](/source/Fordyce_spots), and glands on the eyelids are known as [meibomian glands](/source/Meibomian_gland). Sebaceous glands of the breast are also known as [Montgomery's glands](/source/Montgomery's_glands).[5]

### Development

Sebaceous glands are first visible from the 13th to the 16th week of [fetal development](/source/Prenatal_development#fetal_period), as bulgings off hair follicles.[6] Sebaceous glands develop from the same tissue that gives rise to the [epidermis](/source/Epidermis_(skin)) of the skin. Overexpression of the signalling factors [Wnt](/source/Wnt_signaling_pathway), [Myc](/source/Myc) and [SHH](/source/Sonic_hedgehog) all increase the likelihood of sebaceous gland presence.[5]

The sebaceous glands of a human [fetus](/source/Fetus) secrete a substance called [vernix caseosa](/source/Vernix_caseosa), a waxy, translucent white substance coating the skin of [newborns](/source/Neonate).[7] After birth, activity of the glands decreases until there is almost no activity during ages two–six years, and then increases to a peak of activity during [puberty](/source/Puberty), due to heightened levels of [androgens](/source/Androgen).[6]

		- Base of pilosebaceous unit

		- Insertion of sebaceous glands into [hair shaft](/source/Hair_shaft)

		- [Sagittal section](/source/Sagittal_section) through the [upper eyelid](/source/Upper_eyelid)

		- A [hair follicle](/source/Hair_follicle) with associated structures

		- [Scalp](/source/Scalp) cross section showing [hair follicle](/source/Hair_follicle) with sebaceous glands

## Function

Relative to keratinocytes that make up the hair follicle, sebaceous glands are composed of huge cells (sebocytes) with many large vesicles that contain the sebum.[8] These cells express Na+ and Cl− ion channels, [ENaC](/source/ENaC) and [CFTR](/source/CFTR) (see Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 in reference[8]).

Sebaceous glands secrete the oily, waxy substance called *sebum* ([Latin](/source/Latin) for 'fat, [tallow](/source/Tallow)') that is made of [triglycerides](/source/Triglyceride), [wax esters](/source/Wax_esters), [squalene](/source/Squalene), and [metabolites](/source/Metabolite) of fat-producing cells. Sebum lubricates the skin and hair of mammals.[9] Sebaceous secretions in conjunction with [apocrine](/source/Apocrine) glands also play an important [thermoregulatory](/source/Thermoregulation) role. In hot conditions, the secretions emulsify the sweat produced by the [eccrine sweat glands](/source/Eccrine_sweat_gland) and this produces a sheet of sweat that is not readily lost in drops of sweat. This is of importance in delaying dehydration. In colder conditions, the nature of sebum becomes more lipid, and in coating the hair and skin, rain is effectively repelled.[10][11]

Sebum is produced in a [holocrine process](/source/Holocrine_gland), in which sebocyte cells within the sebaceous gland rupture and disintegrate as they release the sebum and the cell remnants are secreted together with the sebum.[12][13] The cells are constantly replaced by [mitosis](/source/Mitosis) at the base of the duct.[4]

### Sebum

Sebum is secreted by the sebaceous gland in humans. It is primarily composed of [triglycerides](/source/Triglyceride) (≈41%), [wax esters](/source/Wax_ester) (≈26%), [squalene](/source/Squalene) (≈12%), and [free fatty acids](/source/Free_fatty_acid) (≈16%).[7][14] The composition of sebum varies across species.[14] Wax esters and squalene are unique to sebum and not produced as final products anywhere else in the body.[5] [Sapienic acid](/source/Sapienic_acid) is a sebum fatty acid that is unique to humans, and is implicated in the development of acne.[15] Sebum is odorless, but its breakdown by bacteria can produce strong odors.[16]

[Sex hormones](/source/Sex_hormone) are known to affect the rate of sebum secretion; [androgens](/source/Androgen) such as [testosterone](/source/Testosterone) have been shown to stimulate secretion, and [estrogens](/source/Estrogens) have been shown to inhibit secretion.[17] [Dihydrotestosterone](/source/Dihydrotestosterone) acts as the primary androgen in the prostate and in hair follicles.[18][19]

### Immune function and nutrition

Sebaceous glands are part of the body's [integumentary system](/source/Integumentary_system) and serve to protect the body against microorganisms. Sebaceous glands secrete acids that form the [acid mantle](/source/Acid_mantle). This is a thin, slightly [acidic](/source/Acid) film on the surface of the [skin](/source/Skin) that acts as a barrier to [microbes](/source/Microbe) that might penetrate the skin.[20] The [pH](/source/PH) of the skin is between 4.5 and 6.2,[21] an acidity that helps to neutralize the [alkaline](/source/Alkali) nature of contaminants.[22] Sebaceous lipids help maintain the integrity of the skin barrier[10][23][24] and supply [vitamin E](/source/Vitamin_E) to the skin.[25] Sebaceous glands actively participate in innate immunity by releasing [cytokines](/source/Cytokine) like IL-1α, IL-6, and TNF-α.[26]

### Unique sebaceous glands

During the last three months of [fetal development](/source/Fetal_development), the sebaceous glands of the fetus produce [vernix caseosa](/source/Vernix_caseosa), a waxy white substance that coats the skin to protect it from [amniotic fluid](/source/Amniotic_fluid).[27]

The [areolar glands](/source/Areolar_glands) are in the [areola](/source/Areola) that surrounds the nipple in the female breast. These glands secrete an oily fluid that lubricates the nipple, and also secrete volatile compounds that are thought to serve as an olfactory stimulus for the newborn. During pregnancy and lactation these glands, also called Montgomery's glands, become enlarged.[28]

[Meibomian glands](/source/Meibomian_gland), in the [eyelids](/source/Eyelids), secrete a form of sebum called [meibum](/source/Meibum) onto the [eye](/source/Human_eye), that slows the evaporation of [tears](/source/Tears).[29] They also serve to create an airtight seal when the eyes are closed, and their lipid quality also prevents the eyelids from sticking together. They attach directly to the follicles of the eyelashes, which are arranged vertically within the [tarsal plates](/source/Tarsal_plate) of the eyelids.

[Fordyce spots](/source/Fordyce_spots), or Fordyce granules, are ectopic sebaceous glands found on the genitals and [oral mucosa](/source/Oral_mucosa). They show themselves as yellowish-white [milia](/source/Milia) (milk spots).[30]

[Earwax](/source/Earwax) is partly composed of sebum produced by glands in the ear canal. These secretions are [viscous](/source/Viscous) and have a high [lipid](/source/Lipid) content, which provides good lubrication.[31]

## Clinical significance

Conditions of sebaceous glands

Sebaceous glands are involved in skin problems such as [acne](/source/Acne_vulgaris) and [keratosis pilaris](/source/Keratosis_pilaris). In the skin pores, sebum and [keratin](/source/Keratin) can create a [hyperkeratotic](/source/Hyperkeratosis) plug called a [comedo](/source/Comedo).

### Acne

Main article: [Acne](/source/Acne)

[Acne](/source/Acne) is a common occurrence, particularly during [puberty](/source/Puberty) in [teenagers](/source/Teenager), and is thought to relate to an increased production of sebum due to hormonal factors. The increased production of sebum can lead to a blockage of the sebaceous gland duct. This can cause a [comedo](/source/Comedo) (commonly called a *blackhead* or a *whitehead*), which can lead to infection, particularly by the bacteria *[Cutibacterium acnes](/source/Cutibacterium_acnes)*. This can [inflame](/source/Inflammation) the comedones, which then change into the characteristic acne lesions. Comedones generally occur on the areas with more sebaceous glands, particularly the face, shoulders, upper chest and back. Comedones may be "black" or "white" depending on whether the entire pilosebaceous unit, or just the sebaceous duct, is blocked.[32] [Sebaceous filaments](/source/Sebaceous_filament)—innocuous build-ups of sebum—are often mistaken for *whiteheads*.

There are many treatments available for acne from reducing sugars in the diet, to medications that include [antibiotics](/source/Antibiotic), [benzoyl peroxide](/source/Benzoyl_peroxide), [retinoids](/source/Retinoid), and hormonal treatments.[32] Oral retinoids, principally [isotretinoin](/source/Isotretinoin), reduce the amount of sebum produced by the [sebaceous glands](/source/Sebaceous_carcinoma) via induction of [apoptosis](/source/Apoptosis) and are among the most effective agents, while topical retinoids produce mild [exfoliation](/source/Exfoliation_(cosmetology)) and decrease the adhesiveness of [keratinocytes](/source/Keratinocyte), thus normalizing [keratinization](/source/Keratin) and reducing the buildup of dead skin cells which can clog pores and lead to microcomedone formation.[33] Should the usual treatments fail, the presence of the *[Demodex](/source/Demodex)* mite could be looked for as the possible cause.[34] However, considering *Demodex* mites thrive in sebum rich regions, oral isotretinoin should still be efficacious in such cases by destroying their living space.

### Other

Other conditions that involve the sebaceous glands include:

- Seborrhoea refers to overactive sebaceous glands, a cause of oily skin[5] or hair.[16]

- [Sebaceous hyperplasia](/source/Sebaceous_hyperplasia), referring to excessive proliferation of the cells within the glands, and visible macroscopically as small papules on the skin, particularly on the forehead, nose and cheeks.[35]

- [Seborrhoeic dermatitis](/source/Seborrhoeic_dermatitis), a chronic, usually mild form of [dermatitis](/source/Dermatitis) effected by changes in the sebaceous glands.[36] In [newborn](/source/Neonate) infants, seborrhoea dermatitis can occur as [cradle cap](/source/Cradle_cap).

- [Seborrheic-like psoriasis](/source/Seborrheic-like_psoriasis) (also known as "Sebopsoriasis",[37] and "Seborrhiasis") is a skin condition characterized by [psoriasis](/source/Psoriasis) with an overlapping seborrheic dermatitis.[3]: 193

- [Sebaceous adenoma](/source/Sebaceous_adenoma), a benign slow-growing [tumour](/source/Tumour)—which may, however, in rare cases be a precursor to a cancer syndrome known as [Muir–Torre syndrome](/source/Muir%E2%80%93Torre_syndrome).[5]

- [Sebaceous carcinoma](/source/Sebaceous_carcinoma), an uncommon and aggressive cutaneous tumour.[38]

- [Sebaceous cyst](/source/Sebaceous_cyst) is a term used to refer to both an [epidermoid cyst](/source/Epidermoid_cyst) and a [pilar cyst](/source/Pilar_cyst), though neither of these contain sebum, only keratin and do not originate in the sebaceous gland and so are not true sebaceous cysts. A true sebaceous cyst is relatively rare and is known as a [steatocystoma](/source/Steatocystoma_simplex).[39]

- [Nevus sebaceous](/source/Nevus_sebaceous), a hairless region or plaque on the scalp or skin, caused by an overgrowth of sebaceous glands. The condition is congenital and the plaque becomes thicker into adulthood.[40]

- [Phymatous rosacea](/source/Phymatous_rosacea) is a [cutaneous condition](/source/Cutaneous_condition) characterized by an overgrowth of sebaceous glands.[37]

## History

The word *sebaceous*, meaning 'consisting of sebum', was first termed in 1728 and comes from the Latin for 'tallow'.[41] Sebaceous glands have been documented since at least 1746 by [Jean Astruc](/source/Jean_Astruc), who defined them as "...the glands which separate the fat."[42]: viii He describes them in the [oral cavity](/source/Oral_cavity) and on the [head](/source/Human_head), [eyelids](/source/Eyelid), and [ears](/source/Ear), as "universally" acknowledged.[42]: 22–25 viii Astruc describes them being blocked by "small animals" that are "implanted" in the excretory ducts[42]: 64 and attributes their presence in the oral cavity to [apthous ulcers](/source/Apthous_ulcer), noting that "these glands naturally [secrete] a viscous humour, which puts on various colours and consistencies... in its natural state is very mild, balsamic, and intended to wet and lubricate the mouth".[42]: 85–86 In *The Principles of Physiology* 1834, Andrew Combe noted that the glands were not present in the palms of the hands or soles of the feet.[43]

## In animals

Example of a gular gland in a male [black bonneted bat](/source/Black_bonneted_bat)[44]

The [preputial glands](/source/Preputial_gland) of [mice](/source/Mouse) and [rats](/source/Rat) are large modified sebaceous glands that produce [pheromones](/source/Pheromone) used for territorial marking.[5] These and the [scent glands](/source/Scent_gland) in the flanks of [hamsters](/source/Hamster) have a similar composition to human sebaceous glands, are androgen responsive, and have been used as a basis for study.[5] Some species of bat, including the [Mexican free-tailed](/source/Mexican_free-tailed_bat), have a specialized sebaceous gland occurring on the throat called a "gular gland".[45] This gland is present more frequently in males than females, and it is hypothesized that the secretions of the gland are used for scent-marking.[46]

[Sebaceous adenitis](/source/Sebaceous_adenitis) is an [autoimmune disease](/source/Autoimmune_disease) that affects sebaceous glands. It is mainly known to occur in [dogs](/source/Canidae), particularly [poodles](/source/Poodle) and [akitas](/source/Akita_(dog)), where it is thought to be generally [autosomal recessively](/source/Autosomal_recessive) inherited. It has also been described in cats, and one report describes this condition in a rabbit. In these animals, it causes hair loss, though the nature and distribution of the hair loss differs greatly.[47]

## See also

- [List of distinct cell types in the adult human body](/source/List_of_distinct_cell_types_in_the_adult_human_body)

- [List of glands of the human body](/source/List_of_glands_of_the_human_body)

- [Nasal sebum](/source/Nasal_sebum)

- [Sebaceous filament](/source/Sebaceous_filament)

## References

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## External links

- [Histology image: 08801loa](https://www.bu.edu/phpbin/medlib/histology/p/08801loa.htm) – Histology Learning System at Boston University

- [Sebaceous+Glands](https://meshb.nlm.nih.gov/record/ui?name=Sebaceous+Glands) at the U.S. National Library of Medicine [Medical Subject Headings](/source/Medical_Subject_Headings) (MeSH)

v t e Epithelial tissue Cells Squamous Cuboidal Columnar Types Simple Simple squamous epithelium Endothelium Mesothelium Simple cuboidal epithelium Simple columnar epithelium Stratified Stratified squamous epithelium Stratified cuboidal epithelium Stratified columnar epithelium Other Pseudostratified columnar epithelium Respiratory epithelium Transitional epithelium Urothelium Glands Types Mechanism Merocrine Eccrine Apocrine Holocrine Sebaceous Meibomian Shape Tubular gland Alveolar gland Secretion Serous glands Mucous glands Components Myoepithelial cell Serous demilune Ducts Intralobular Striated Intercalated Acinus/Lobe

v t e Skin and related structures Skin Epidermis Stratum corneum Stratum lucidum Stratum granulosum Stratum spinosum Malpighian layer Stratum basale Basement membrane Basal keratinocyte Lamina lucida Lamina densa Dermis Papillary Dermal papillae Reticular Subcutaneous tissue Panniculus/Pannus (Panniculus adiposus Panniculus carnosus) Membranous layer Loose connective tissue Superficial fascia Adnexa Skin glands Sweat glands: Apocrine sweat gland Eccrine sweat gland Sebaceous Hair Root sheath Outer root sheath Inner root sheath Henle's layer Huxley's layer Hair shaft Cuticle Cortex Medulla Bulb with matrix cells Hair follicle Muscle Arrector pili muscle Pilosebaceous unit Hair sebaceous gland Nail Nail matrix Nail plate Lunula Eponychium Paronychium Hyponychium

Authority control databases International GND National United States France BnF data Israel Other Terminologia Anatomica 2 Yale LUX

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Sebaceous gland](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sebaceous_gland) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sebaceous_gland?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.