If you are a patient aged 40 or above and have oily or combination skin, along with small, stubborn bumps that are either yellow, pink in color and donut shaped on your face, it is possible that you are dealing with sebaceous hyperplasia. Although these bumps are usually harmless, they can be bothersome and challenging to eliminate. Thankfully, The Art of Skin Dermatology can provide you with the necessary treatment. Reach out to us today to book an appointment with a dermatologist and discover the various treatments we offer for a diverse range of skin conditions.
What Is Sebaceous Hyperplasia?
Sebaceous hyperplasia is a harmless condition characterized by the benign growth of oil glands in the body. These glands, which are typically too small to be seen with the naked eye, are attached to hair follicles all over the body. Their main function is to release natural oils that keep the skin moisturized and supple. However, in certain cases, these glands can become enlarged and clogged with sebum, resulting in small, shiny bumps that commonly appear on the face, particularly on the nose and forehead. Occasionally, these bumps can also occur in other areas such as the areolas, chest, scrotum, and penis. It is important to note that these bumps may sometimes be mistaken for acne, milia, or even basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. In such cases, a dermatologist may recommend a biopsy of the bumps to confirm the diagnosis.
Sebaceous Hyperplasia Causes
The exact cause of sebaceous hyperplasia remains unknown, but it is believed to be linked to changes in androgen hormones as individuals age. This condition typically manifests in middle-aged patients and is more commonly observed in fair-skinned individuals compared to those with deeper skin tones. Additionally, it is more prevalent in individuals who have had significant exposure to UV radiation, whether through unprotected sun exposure or tanning beds. The harmful radiation not only affects the skin but also damages the sebaceous glands. Although sebaceous hyperplasia typically occurs in older patients starting at middle age, individuals with a strong family history of the condition may experience its onset at an earlier age.
What Are The Symptoms Of Sebaceous Hyperplasia?
Sebaceous hyperplasia manifests as small, glistening bumps in a white-yellow hue, measuring 1–3 millimeters in diameter. Each bump features a minuscule depression at its core, and in some instances, visible blood vessels may be present. Patients typically observe multiple bumps simultaneously, which can be scattered or closely grouped together. Sebaceous hyperplasia bumps tend to emerge most frequently in areas abundant with sebaceous glands, such as the forehead, middle of the face, and other body parts. Distinguishing sebaceous hyperplasia from acne without professional diagnosis can be challenging. Acne arises when follicles become obstructed, leading to oil accumulation beneath the skin, whereas sebaceous hyperplasia occurs within the subcutaneous gland. Reach out to us today to arrange an appointment with our skilled dermatologists.
