The Sebaceous Gland Revisited: Friend And Adversary

September 2025 in “ SKINdeep ”

Peter M. Elias, Joan Wakefield, Peter M. Elias, Joan Wakefield

sebaceous glands scarring alopecia seborrheic dermatitis acne hair follicles antimicrobial protection lipids vitamin D precursors vitamin E skin health pheromones

TLDR Sebaceous glands help protect and maintain healthy skin and hair.

The article explores the dual role of the sebaceous gland (SG) as both beneficial and potentially harmful. It highlights the SG's critical functions, including hair follicle lubrication, vitamin D and E delivery, stratum corneum hydration, antimicrobial activity, and its role in immunobiology. The regulation of SG structure and function is also discussed, emphasizing its complex role in skin health and disease. The article concludes that while the SG plays essential roles in maintaining skin homeostasis, its dysregulation can contribute to various skin disorders, making it both a friend and adversary in dermatological health.

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