Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands, which are small glands located near the surface of the skin. Each sebaceous gland is attached to a hair follicle. Sebum is created through a process called holocrine secretion. This process involves the breakdown of the sebaceous gland cells themselves, which release their contents, including lipids, into the hair follicle.
Here's a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
- Sebocytes, the cells that make up the sebaceous gland, produce lipids.
- These lipids accumulate within the sebaceous gland for approximately a week.
- As the sebocytes mature, they undergo apoptosis, a process of programmed cell death.
- The breakdown of the sebocytes releases the accumulated lipids into the hair follicle, forming sebum.
Sebum plays a crucial role in skin health by:
- Moisturizing and protecting the skin.
- Preventing excessive water loss.
- Creating a protective barrier against environmental factors.
