Sebaceous gland

Definition

Sebaceous glands are small oil-producing glands present in the skin of mammals, located in the dermis layer. They secrete an oily substance called sebum, which helps to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair.

Related terms

Sebum:

An oily substance produced by sebaceous glands that helps to lubricate the skin and hair.

Dermis:

The thick layer of living tissue below the epidermis that forms the true skin, containing sweat glands, hair follicles, and sebaceous glands.

Hair Follicle:

A small secretory cavity or sac from which hair grows; it is situated in the dermis and is associated with sebaceous glands