The wait times in our emergency departments are longer than usual due to illnesses like RSV and the flu. View our estimated ED wait times and learn more about where to get care for your sick child.

Patient & Family Education Materials

Start over with a New Search

What Are Sebaceous Glands?

Article Translations: (Spanish)

Sebaceous glands

Say: sih-BAY-shis glands

Sebaceous glands make an oil called sebum (say: SEE-bum) that keeps skin soft and smooth. If they make too much oil, your pores can get clogged, and you can get bumps and red spots called pimples.

Back To Top

Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

© 1995-2025 KidsHealth ® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com