Serum androgens

Abstract

The number of sebaceous glands remains approximately the same throughout life, whereas their size tends to increase with age. The development and function of the sebaceous gland in the fetal and neonatal periods appear to be mainly regulated by maternal androgens and by endogenous steroid synthesis. A strong increase in sebum excretion occurs a few hours after birth, reaching its peak during the first week and slowly subsides thereafter. A new rise takes place at about age 9 years with adrenarche and continues up to age 17 years, when the adult level is reached [1].