Prepare for the Electrolysis Exam with our comprehensive study resources. Our quizzes feature multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations to enhance your understanding. Get ready to achieve success in your certification with confidence!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What substance do oil glands secrete onto the skin?

  1. Cholesterol

  2. Steroid hormones

  3. Sebum

  4. Vitamins

The correct answer is: Sebum

The substance that oil glands secrete onto the skin is sebum. Sebum is an oily substance that is produced by the sebaceous glands, which are located in the dermis layer of the skin. Its primary function is to lubricate the skin and hair, providing a protective barrier that helps to prevent dryness and maintain skin hydration. Additionally, sebum has antibacterial properties that can help to reduce the risk of infections. Cholesterol, while a vital component of the cell membrane and important in various biological functions, is not secreted by oil glands. Steroid hormones are produced by specific glands, such as the adrenal glands and gonads, and they regulate various physiological processes but do not directly relate to the secretion of oil on the skin. Vitamins, though essential for skin health, are also not secreted by oil glands; rather, they can be absorbed from diet or through the skin from topical applications.