California Cosmetology Written ExamSkin CareHard
Which statement about sebaceous glands is accurate?
- AThey are found on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet
- BThey secrete sweat to regulate body temperature
- CThey are connected only to sweat glands, not hair follicles
- DThey are absent from the palms and soles
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. They are absent from the palms and soles
Sebaceous glands secrete sebum to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair, and they are found nearly everywhere on the body except the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, which lack hair follicles.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Sebaceous glands are notably absent from the palms and soles, the opposite of this claim.
- B. Sweat regulation is the function of sudoriferous (sweat) glands, not sebaceous glands.
- C. Sebaceous glands are typically connected to hair follicles, not sweat glands.
Sebaceous Glands
Oil glands connected to hair follicles that secrete sebum to lubricate and waterproof skin and hair; absent on palms and soles.
- Secrete sebum, an oily lubricant
- Connected to hair follicles (except lips, eyelids in some cases)
- Absent on palms and soles where no hair grows
Memory trick: 'No hair, no oil' — palms and soles skip sebaceous glands