HealthAugust 19, 2026

sebum

SEE-bum

Definition

The oily, waxy substance produced by the body's sebaceous glands that lubricates and waterproofs the skin.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'sebum,' meaning tallow, grease, or suet, which has been used in English since the 17th century to describe this natural bodily oil.

In the news

The article mentions sebum patterns as one of the specific surface skin characteristics that the Lumoscope device can analyze to provide personalized skincare data.

Skin Imaging Phone Attachments: The Lumeria Lumoscope Supports At-Home Skin Tracking

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