Sebaceous glands produce an oily secretion called sebum. Sebum maintains body temperature, acts as an antimicrobial agent and keeps the skin smooth and supple.
What is sebum?
The normal function of sebaceous glands is to produce and secrete sebum, a group of complex oils including triglycerides and fatty acid breakdown products, wax esters, squalene, cholesterol esters and cholesterol. This helps to protect the skin from the outside environment. Too much sebum can contribute to several problems, including acne, oily skin, or an oily scalp.
