Final answer:
Sebaceous glands are exocrine glands that produce sebum to lubricate the skin and hair, waterproof them, and provide antibacterial protection. They become more active after puberty and are present throughout the body except on palms and soles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sebaceous glands are essential components of our skin's integumentary system. Sebaceous glands are exocrine glands that produce sebum to lubricate the skin and hair, waterproof them, and provide antibacterial protection. They become more active after puberty and are present throughout the body except on palms and soles.
They are a type of exocrine gland that produce and secrete sebum, a fatty substance, into the hair follicles. This secretion offers several benefits: it acts as a natural lubricant for the skin and hair, provides waterproofing to prevent unnecessary water loss, and has antibacterial properties to protect the skin from potential infections.
These glands are most active after puberty due to hormonal stimulation, and are found everywhere on the body except the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.