What Causes Sebaceous Hyperplasia?
Sebaceous hyperplasia appear as small yellow bumps on the skin which most commonly seen on the forehead. They are up to 3mm in diameter and have a distinctive whitish rim.
The bumps are harmless, but unsightly, so many patients are keen to find an effective treatment. However, before contemplating any treatment, it is always helpful to understand what causes sebaceous hyperplasia.
Causes of Sebaceous Hyperplasia
- Sebaceous hyperplasia are caused by overactive sebaceous glands, which produce excessive sebum. Sebum is an oil naturally produced by the skin to keep it supple and hydrated. However, when too much sebum is produced, it can cause a range of problems, including acne, greasy skin or hair. In the case of sebaceous hyperplasia, the excessive sebum becomes trapped inside the gland which then causes it to swell and form a bump under the skin, where the hair follicle is surrounded by yellowish buildup
- Sebaceous hyperplasia tends to be age-related. It is most common in middle-aged or older people
- Patients with fair skin are more susceptible to sebaceous hyperplasia
- Sun exposure increases the risk
- Family history is an indicator of likelihood to suffer from sebaceous hyperplasia, as it tends to run in families
- Certain medications (e.g. immunosuppressant medication cyclosporine) are known to increase the risk of sebaceous hyperplasia
Can Sebaceous Hyperplasia be Treated?
Some websites say that there is no cure for sebaceous hyperplasia. However, there are treatments which can tackle the problem.
Firstly, if you suffer from excessively oily skin, it is worth reviewing the daily skincare regime. Washing with a cleanser that contains salicylic acid or low levels of retinol can help prevent your sebaceous glands from clogging. These are ‘cosmeceutical’ products which often require a prescription due to the active ingredients which cannot be purchased over the counter.
However, for more direct action, Cosmedics’ London Mole Removal Centre offers a range of professional treatments, including:
- Laser treatment – laser works by destroying the lesions, breaking down the blockage while also stimulating the skin’s own healing and renewal processes, leaving skin clearer and healthier-looking
- Cryotherapy – liquid nitrogen is used to freeze the lesions so that they drop off
- Surgical excision – large, stubborn, hardened lesions can be treated with surgery. This is a last resort, but careful excision of the lesion ensures that it won’t recur. There is a risk of scarring, but it fades over time and is usually less noticeable than the original problem
The team at London Mole Removal Centre are highly trained and experienced in recognising and diagnosing skin conditions.
Their expertise and equipment mean that they can properly establish the nature and cause of your skin complaint, then recommend the most appropriate solution.
After Sebaceous Hyperplasia Treatment
In order to avoid the recurrence of the problem, there are 2 key things to consider:
- Keep the skin in good condition, working to reduce the oiliness by using suitable skincare products
- Avoid excessive sun exposure, as this can also trigger the problem
Book an Appointment
London Mole Removal Centre offer appointments at a choice of 5 private skin treatment centres based in London and Bristol. All consultations and treatments are carried out in person by doctors who are specially trained in the latest laser and skin surgery techniques and are highly experienced in the field. Most skin lesions can be removed at the same appointment as the consultation, but there is no obligation to proceed unless and until both the patient and doctor are completely happy to do so.
For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7731 3791.
Hi
Please can you advise how much a consultation will cost to discuss my sebaceous hyperplasia?
Many thanks,
Natalie
Hi, consultations are £50. This fee is discounted off the price of your treatment if carried out in the same appointment as the consultation. However, there is no obligation at all to go ahead.