Regulate sebum (oil) production and secretion
- The excretion of lipids by the sebaceous glands is controlled hormonally.
- The sebaceous glands are located all over the body but are the largest and most numerous in the face, back, chest, and shoulders.
- These glands become more active during puberty because of increased androgens, particularly testosterone, which spurs sebum production.
- This imbalance between sebum production and secretion capacity leads to a blockage of sebum in the hair follicle, followed by inflammation.
- Hormones continue to affect sebaceous gland activity into adulthood.