Sebum refers to an oily substance secreted from the skin. Specifically, the sebaceous glands are located underneath the skin and where hair is located. Not taking a shower for a few days can cause the hair to have an oily consistency. Puberty with its hormonal changes can promote the skin to produce more sebum. There are a few existing sebum disorders.
Acne
Acne, commonly known as pimples and zits, is the result of increased sebum production, bacteria and abnormal shedding of dead skin cells, according to the Mayo Clinic. Acne is typically found on the face, chest, back and shoulders.
Specifically, the Mayo Clinic says that acne can assume numerous forms: comedones, papules, pustules and nodules. Comedones, also known as blackheads or whiteheads, occur when the hair follicles become obstructed with oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. Comedones that are located at the skin surface are called blackheads while comedones that are closed are called whiteheads. Papules are tiny red bumps on the skin that can be painful. Pustules are also small red bumps, but they contain white pus. Nodules are firm and painful lumps that form as a result of sebum accumulation deep within the hair follicle, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Over-the-counter lotions containing benzoyl peroxide, sulfur or lactic acid can help treat acne. Prescription medications such as tretinoin or adapalene can also reduce the appearance of acne. Certain antibiotics may be used to destroy any bacteria that may be causing acne. The Mayo Clinic says that other acne treatments include oral contraceptives, light or laser therapy, chemical peels and microdermabrasion treatments.
Sebaceous Cysts
Sebaceous cysts, also known as epidermoid cysts, refer to small bumps that can occur on the chest, face, neck and genital region. These cysts occur in regions containing large sebaceous glands.
The Mayo Clinic says that manifestations of a sebaceous cyst include round movable cysts that are white or yellow in color. These cysts can grow to approximately 2 inches in diameter. It is important to seek medical help when sebaceous cysts become painful, rupture or grow in size.
Treatment for sebaceous cysts include obtaining corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. Sometimes, the cyst can be cut and drained. Also, it may be surgically removed. In some cases, lasers may be used to remove sebaceous cysts to prevent scarring, especially in sensitive regions like the face.
Sebaceous Carcinoma of the Eyelid
Sebaceous carcinoma of the eyelid refers to an overgrowth of malignant cells that starts in the eyelid. According to the Eye Cancer Network, sebaceous carcinoma specifically starts in the upper eyelid or eyebrow. Manifestations of a sebaceous carcinoma includes a yellow-nodule in the eyelid or other eye region. Treatment involves surgically removing the sebaceous carcinoma because it can spread to the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, bone and brain.
