Final answer:
Earwax, or cerumen, is the brown waxy substance formed by the mixed secretions of sebaceous and ceruminous glands. Sebaceous glands produce sebum, an oily substance that lubricates and waterproofs the skin and hair and has antibacterial properties. The sebaceous glands are most active after puberty and contribute to the formation of earwax.
Step-by-step explanation:
The brown waxy substance formed by the mixed secretions of sebaceous and ceruminous glands is known as earwax or cerumen. The role of sebaceous glands in mammals is to secrete an oily substance called sebum. This sebum is composed of a mixture of lipids that serve to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair. Sebaceous glands are found throughout the skin, with the exception of the palms and soles.
Sebum has several benefits for the skin and hair. It not only waterproofs them and helps prevent drying out, but it also has antibacterial properties, which inhibit the growth of microorganisms on the skin. These glands are most active post-puberty when they are stimulated by hormones.
The sebaceous glands are associated with hair follicles and their secretion, sebum, along with the secretions of the ceruminous glands in the ear combine to form the protective substance earwax.