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

Dilute laundry detergent in water to make a tub-cleaning agent that will break down soap scum, which is a mix of soap and bio-based elements like sebum and dead skin, quickly and effectively. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Dec. 2025

The yeast that drives dandruff (Malassezia) feeds on sebum, so when oil builds up, flaking and itch often follow. —Allure, 18 Dec. 2025

And to treat oil and shine, this is also enriched with live yeast extracts and lactic acid to regulate sebum production and reduce breakouts over time. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 12 Dec. 2025

Puberty brings up more oily sebum, which can clog pores and cause the infamous teenage acne. —Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield, CBS News, 9 Dec. 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