What is Sebaceous Hyperplasia?

In Your Practice

As skin care professionals, our clients will come to us for advice on a variety of skin-related issues. In this role, one of our key responsibilities is to address their questions and concerns with knowledge and empathy.
Common and harmless lesions, such as sebaceous hyperplasia, are a great starting point to engage with your clients about a common skin conditions that may distress them, and then educate them on related prevention and treatment options.

 

What is Sebaceous Hyperplasia?

Sebaceous hyperplasia is a common and benign condition of the facial sebaceous glands. You can identify this condition most often when examining your middle-aged and mature clients. Clients who are current or previous sun lovers, especially those with oily skin, are particularly prone to the condition.
As per its name, sebaceous hyperplasia develops from the body’s sebaceous glands.  Microscopic sebaceous glands on the skin are made up of cells called sebocytes. These cells secrete the waxy, oily substance known as sebum. Sebum acts as a lubricant that softens the skin and hair while also serving as a waterproof shield. Sebaceous hyperplasia develops when these glands become enlarged (hyperplasia) due to sebum clogging their ducts, causing gland growth.

What do sebaceous hyperplasia look like and where do they occur?

Sebaceous hyperplasia appear as tiny bumps (papules) that range in color from flesh-colored to a yellowish tint. These papules can either be solitary or can appear in clusters. They have a soft texture and are slightly yellow in color. Papules are generally about 2–5 cm in size and do not grow in size over time. They often have an indented center, giving them their distinct “donut-style” appearance.
You will mostly frequently find sebaceous hyperplasia on your clients’ cheeks and foreheads. As these are noticeably visible areas, their appearance can be upsetting to your clients who deem them unattractive. Besides these common regions, sebaceous hyperplasia can also often occur on the chest, areola, neck, oral mucosa, as well as in the genital areas.

For more professional education on sebaceous hyperplasia, including its contributing causes, preventative practices, and effective treatment options, please click to here for the full blog. ©Lamskin

 

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LAMPROBE is a leading technology innovator and educator in the professional esthetics industry, treating common Minor Skin Irregularities™ such as sebaceous hyperplasia for over 20 years. We empower modern skin care professionals to advance their skills, in service of their clients. Please visit us at lamprobe.com to learn more.