sebum

noun

se·​bum ˈsē-bəm 

: fatty lubricant matter secreted by sebaceous glands of the skin

Examples of sebum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It’s also formulated with niacinamide, an ingredient that brightens, hydrates, supports your skin barrier, and helps balance sebum levels. —Sarah Y. Wu, Glamour, 23 Apr. 2025

Teens are especially prone to breakouts from a lack of cleansing due to the high levels of sebum their skin produces. —Melissa Willets, Parents, 12 May 2025

Sure, its main focus is minimizing oiliness and excess sebum production, but Dr. Nazarian says this matte-finish, non-comedogenic moisturizer is also a gentle, oil-free formulation that won't irritate delicate skin. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 3 Apr. 2025

For those who want a lightweight oil that removes sebum and grim while soothing the skin, look no further. —Rosa Jisoo Pyo, Vogue, 14 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, tallow, grease

First Known Use

circa 1860, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

sebum

noun

se·​bum ˈsēb-əm 

: lubricant matter that is secreted by sebaceous glands of the skin and is composed of various lipids (such as triglycerides, fatty acids, and squalene)

Androgens, such as testosterone, play a role in the development and exacerbation of acne by stimulating the production of sebum.

—Isabella Tan, Dermatology Times

… the resulting production of sebum from sebaceous glands aids in lubrication, heat insulation, … antimicrobial activity, and delivery of fat-soluble antioxidants to the skin surface.

—Dustin H. Marks, American Journal of Clinical Dermatology

see sebocyte