Sebaceous Glands

Definition

Sebaceous glands are specialized exocrine glands found throughout the skin, except on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. They secrete an oily substance called sebum, which helps to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sebaceous glands are found in the dermis layer of the skin and are associated with hair follicles, forming the pilosebaceous unit.
2. The primary function of sebaceous glands is to produce sebum, which helps to maintain the skin's protective barrier and prevent water loss.
3. Sebum is composed of triglycerides, wax esters, squalene, and other lipids, and is released onto the skin surface through the hair follicle.
4. Sebaceous glands use a holocrine secretion method, where the entire gland cell is released to form the secreted product.
5. Overproduction of sebum can lead to acne, while underproduction can result in dry, flaky skin.

Review Questions

• Explain the role of sebaceous glands in the context of epithelial tissue.
  • Sebaceous glands are a type of exocrine gland that are classified as part of the epithelial tissue. They are located within the dermis layer of the skin and are associated with hair follicles, forming the pilosebaceous unit. The sebaceous glands secrete an oily substance called sebum, which helps to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair. This secretion process is known as holocrine secretion, where the entire gland cell is released to form the final product. The sebum produced by the sebaceous glands is an important component of the skin's protective barrier, helping to maintain skin health and prevent water loss.
• Describe the role of sebaceous glands within the layers of the skin.
  • Sebaceous glands are found within the dermis layer of the skin, which is the second layer of the integumentary system. They are closely associated with hair follicles, forming the pilosebaceous unit. The sebaceous glands secrete sebum, an oily substance that helps to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair. This sebum is released onto the skin surface through the hair follicle, where it helps to maintain the skin's protective barrier and prevent water loss. The location of sebaceous glands within the dermis, as well as their secretory function, are important for the overall structure and function of the skin's layers.
• Analyze the functions of sebaceous glands within the integumentary system.
  • Sebaceous glands play a crucial role in the functions of the integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, and nails. The primary function of sebaceous glands is to produce sebum, an oily substance that helps to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair. This sebum helps to maintain the skin's protective barrier, preventing water loss and protecting the skin from environmental stressors. Additionally, sebum has antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms on the skin's surface. The secretion of sebum by sebaceous glands is also important for the health and appearance of the hair, as it helps to keep the hair follicles and strands moisturized. Overall, the functions of sebaceous glands are essential for the integumentary system's ability to protect the body and maintain skin and hair health.

Related terms

Sebum:

An oily, waxy substance secreted by the sebaceous glands that helps to moisturize and protect the skin and hair.

Holocrine Secretion:

The method of secretion used by sebaceous glands, where the entire cell is released to form the secreted product.

Pilosebaceous Unit: The combination of a hair follicle and its associated sebaceous gland, which work together to produce and release sebum.