Sebaceous lipids

Abstract

Skin is protected by a layer of lipids, of both sebaceous and keratinocyte origin, which cover the surface of the skin. Different compositions of surface lipids have been reported depending on the method of sampling. Lipids produced by the epidermal cells are usually less per area in regions rich in sebaceous glands. The holocrine nature of the sebaceous gland will eventually result that the sebum will eventually coat the surface of the skin and the fur. The sebaceous lipids are primarily nonpolar lipids as triglycerides, wax esters, and squalene, while the epidermal lipids consist of ceramides, free-fatty acids, and cholesterol in almost equimolar concentrations. The composition of the sebaceous lipids manifests uniqueness and an intriguing biology exclusive to this gland. Elevated sebum excretion is a major factor involved in the pathophysiology of acne, therefore, an attempt to decode and elucidate the roles that these unique lipids have on normal skin functions and acne is imperative.