These include themeibomian glandsof the eyelids and the Fordyce spots of the lips and genitals.

Sebaceous glands work in tandem with the sweat-producing eccrine glands to regulate body temperature.

In hot conditions, the excreted sebum mixes with sweat to slow the rate of evaporation.

Doctor holding a plastic skin model

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Sebum production tends to slow by around the age of 20 and continues diminishing the older we get.

As this occurs, the skin can become drier and lose elasticity.

These changes, referred tosebostasis, tend to occur in tandem with decreases in androgen production.

Pimples on temple

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Role in Pimples

The condition most of us associate with the sebaceous glands is pimples.

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Pimples are medically referred to asacne vulgaris.

demodicosis

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Those that are severe and consolidate into boil-like pustules are known ascystic acne.

Treatments includeantibiotics,benzoyl peroxide,retinoids, and anti-androgen drugs such as spironolactone.

This condition causes small, skin-colored bumps to appear on the skin.

seborrhoeic dermatitis

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These small bumps are sebaceous glands that have become enlarged and visible on the skin.

Sweat glands are located on nearly every area of the body.

Fordyce spots are harmless, so a cure or treatment isn’t usually necessary.

rosacea on face

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If they become itchy or irritated, a doctor might prescribe a mild topical steroid to offer relief.

American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.Fordyce spots.