Main function of the sebaceous gland

• A. To regulate the body temperature
• B. To produce sweat
• C. To lubricate the skin
• D. To detoxify the skin

Answer: (C)

Sebaceous glands produce sebum, an oily substance that coats the skin and hair. This lubrication creates a protective film that helps prevent excessive water loss, keeps the skin soft and flexible, and adds a barrier against some microbes. The activity of these glands is influenced by hormones, which is why puberty often brings oilier skin. The other options involve functions handled by different structures: regulating body temperature and sweating are functions of sweat glands and vascular responses, while detoxification isn’t a role of sebaceous glands—the skin does excrete some wastes, but sebum’s job is lubrication.