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

The percussive vibration unclogs impurities and excess sebum while the accompanying massage motion stimulates blood microcirculation and supports lymphatic drainage—exactly the mechanisms Cirino prioritizes in his professional treatments. — Tanya Akim, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Workout gear and tight-fitting clothes in particular absorb sebum, the oil that occurs naturally in our skin. — Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 July 2026

Best scrub treatment This exfoliator instantly removes deposits from the scalp, as well as dry skin and excess sebum. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 7 July 2026

The sebum-mimicking lipid offers anti-inflammatory and moisturizing benefits, too, for a younger-looking, bouncier complexion. — Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 1 July 2026

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