What are sebaceous glands ? How are these glands affected during puberty ?
Hello Dhruv!!
Here Is The Amswer
Here Is The Amswer
- Sebaceous glands are microscopic exocrine glands in the skin that secrete an oily or waxy matter, called sebum, to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair of mammals.
- In humans, they occur in the greatest number on the face and scalp, but also on all parts of the skin except the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
- The type of secretion of the sebaceous glands is referred to as holocrine.
- The overall size of the sebaceous gland increases and becomes lumpier in response to increased production of hormones called androgens.
- The hormonal changes at puberty that follow lead to changes in both the sebaceous glands and the skin cells lining the hair follicle opening (pore).
- During puberty, your hormones make the sebaceous glands grow bigger and produce extra sebum.
- This sebum is often thicker and flows more slowly, so it tends to clog the pores, causing pimples. When pimples become very inflamed, this condition is called acne.