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

That means brushing up on your exfoliation game, especially when flakes, excess sebum, or styling residue start overstaying their welcome. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 1 Aug. 2025

Previous research has already established a link between sebum and Parkinson’s. —Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 19 June 2025

After that, brush through your hair, and the dry shampoo will sweep away particles filled with sebum and sweat and leave behind clean, shiny strands. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 18 June 2025

Clarifying shampoos will also remove excess oil, sebum, and grease for those with oily hair. —Catharine Malzahn, Glamour, 2 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