What Is Sebaceous Hyperplasia?

Sebaceous Hyperplasia is a very common skin condition that is really nothing to be worried about.  I see clients daily who have this condition and are frustrated by it.  These lesions show up mostly on the forehead, cheeks and nose and appear as whitish-yellow or skin-colored papules that are soft and vary in size from 2-9 mm.  The cause is an enlargement of the sebaceous (oil) gland.  Other than being frustrated by them, there is nothing to be concerned about.  They present no immediate health threat.  If you are really bothered by these consult your physician as there are options to treating them such as laser or cauterization.  Be aware these lesions may reoccur following removal and scarring is possible unless the entire sebaceous gland is removed.  Another type of treatment used is Accutane or Oral Isotretinoin.  I do not recommend this treatment as it can leave lasting health complications later in life such as digestive issues and once the medication is stopped the lesions may return.  Yes, Sebaceous Hyperplasia can be cosmetically irritating to those who have it, but it is not a health threat.