You may have noticed small bumps appearing on your face or other parts of your body. They seem to come and go randomly, are not painful or seem like a pimple starting to develop. You may have wondered what they are for some time and what to know if you need to worry about them. Throughout my years treating various lumps and bumps, by far the most common is Sebaceous Hyperplasia. These small bumps are often skin-coloured, but can also be white or with a slightly yellow tint. The surface of the bumps maybe smooth, or slightly uneven and coarse.
GOOD NEWS! They are harmless and benign. They are a result of damaged skin cells. Sebaceous glands are attached to hair follicles and are all over your body. Their function is to release sebum onto the skin’s surface. Sebum creates an oily layer on the skin lubricating the skin and hair. Sometimes these sebaceous gland become to enlarged with trapped sebum which then forms a shiny bump on the surface of the skin, a Sebaceous Hyperplasia. This "bumps" can be individual or in clusters and found on the forehead, face, nose, back, shoulders, armpits and groin.
SO WHAT CAUSES THEM?
Sun damage is a well-known factor in sebaceous hyperplasia. The skin cells are burned or overexposed to sunlight, creating the perfect environment for the condition to develop. Always wear a good sunscreen, an SPF 30+ that protects your skin.
Poor cleaning routine can be a factor
Sebaceous hyperplasia has also been linked to people who take medication or have immunity conditions.
Ageing is also a factor (often seen in people over 40).
Hereditary – blame your parents!
SEBACEOUS HYPERPLASIA TREATMENT
There are many treatments available, both natural and medical. It is up to you to decide which suits you best. You know your body the best and what will be tolerated. People with very pale skin may require a treatment different than someone with more melanin in their skin.
The bumps can as well be diminished or temporarily eradicated, but those affected glands will most likely produce some new bumps if the treatment is not maintained and applied consistently. Skin specialist may recommend the following treatments. Again, it is to you to decide what suits you best. These may be applied alone or together with other treatments, depending on the extent of your condition.
Facial peels: Using salicylic or glycolic acid.
Micro needling: a procedure that helps even skin tone and maintain healthy skin.
Prescription retinoid: This may mask the condition, but won’t eliminate the problem.
Surgical removal: Again, this may result in scarring, but no bump will reoccur in the area.
Cauterisation or Advanced Electrolysis (with a needle): This will create a scab, which will fall off in about a week.
Photodynamic therapy: A light-emitting action where your skin is pre-treated using a gel that reacts to the light. This is a multi-visit treatment.
DID YOU KNOW: Mixing a tbspoon of Apple cider and Peppermint oil is a natural alternative. It works by dissolving the overgrowths and preventing them from coming back. This essential oil comes packed with multiple advantages. It is an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial solution. Peppermint essential oil works by being absorbed into your skin and eliminating excess oil causing the overgrowths. Its anti-inflammatory properties work on getting the glands back to a normal size by attacking the inflammation.
Soak a cotton ball in the solution and gently dab the afflicted area with it. Repeat until the condition completely disappears. Do this for a week-seek advice from a professional if there is no change. ALWAYS DO A PATCH TEST.
SEBACEOUS HYPERPLASIA PREVENTION
Whether you have just treated sebaceous hyperplasia or you want to prevent and outbreak of it, you have some options to ensure you maintain your beautiful skin. Which conditions exactly cause this condition are still being debated – but by maintaining a healthy and consistent skin care routine you will reduce the risk of sebaceous hyperplasia troubling you:
Exceptional hygiene, always wash your face with warm water and gentle cleaners
Occasional facial peels
Boost of your immune system – get your recommended daily vitamins and minerals
Avoid foods that interfere with your hormone levels or pH levels
Drink water
Do not sleep in makeup
Avoid cheap or detergent rich soaps or creams
So, even though sebaceous hyperplasia are not harmful, they can be unsightly which can knock your confidents.The good news is that we have lots of ways to help prevent and treat this bothersom condition, so you don't have to put up with it. Pay attention to any skin condition that you experience. If you are at all concerned or feel it may be more than just sebaceous hyperplasia, seek professional attention, get advice and look for the treatment that will work best for you.