Oil glands, also known as sebaceous glands, are microscopic glands found in your hair follicles. They secrete an oily substance called sebum, which helps to moisturize and protect your skin.
While most oil glands are associated with hair follicles, there are a few exceptions:
- Meibomian glands: These oil glands are located along the edge of the eyelids where the eyelashes are found. They produce oil that is an important part of the eye's tears, helping to lubricate and protect the eye.
- Uropygial glands: This gland is unique to birds and is located on the dorsal side of the tail. It produces an oily secretion that birds spread on their feathers during preening, helping to waterproof and condition them.
Location of Sebaceous Glands
- Generally: Sebaceous glands are located in the mid-dermis, a layer of skin below the epidermis.
- Specific location: They are almost always associated with hair follicles and have an outlet that empties into the follicular canal. This association is known as the pilosebaceous unit.
Common Locations for Sebaceous Glands:
- Face
- Scalp
- Other parts of the skin (except the palms of the hands and soles of the feet)
Sebaceous glands play a vital role in maintaining healthy skin and hair.
