Which gland secretes sebum to lubricate hair and skin?

Which gland secretes sebum to lubricate hair and skin?

• A. Sweat glands
• B. Ceruminous glands
• C. Sebaceous glands
• D. Salivary glands

Answer: (C)

Sebaceous glands are responsible for secreting sebum, an oily substance that coats hair shafts and the surface of the skin. They attach to hair follicles and release sebum through ducts, providing lubrication that keeps hair pliable and the skin moisturized. This oily layer also helps form a protective barrier that reduces water loss and can help inhibit some bacteria. Hormonal changes, especially androgens, can increase sebum production, which is why oily hair and skin are common during adolescence. In contrast, sweat glands produce perspiration for cooling, ceruminous glands make earwax, and salivary glands produce saliva. Understanding this helps when choosing products and techniques for conditioning and scalp care.

Sebaceous glands are responsible for secreting sebum, an oily substance that coats hair shafts and the surface of the skin. They attach to hair follicles and release sebum through ducts, providing lubrication that keeps hair pliable and the skin moisturized. This oily layer also helps form a protective barrier that reduces water loss and can help inhibit some bacteria. Hormonal changes, especially androgens, can increase sebum production, which is why oily hair and skin are common during adolescence. In contrast, sweat glands produce perspiration for cooling, ceruminous glands make earwax, and salivary glands produce saliva. Understanding this helps when choosing products and techniques for conditioning and scalp care.