What is the main function of sebaceous glands?

The main function of sebaceous glands is to secrete sebum, an oily substance that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the skin and hair. Sebum helps to keep the skin moisturized by preventing excessive water loss, which is vital for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing dryness. It also has antibacterial properties that can protect the skin from infections by creating a barrier that inhibits the growth of pathogens. Furthermore, sebum contributes to the overall protective function of the skin, enhancing its ability to act as a barrier against environmental damage.

Understanding this function highlights the importance of sebaceous glands in skin health. Other options relate to different processes in the body; for example, sweat production is managed by sweat glands, melanin production is the function of melanocytes preventing UV damage, and pain signaling involves nerve endings in the skin, reflecting a variety of roles the integumentary system plays beyond the secretion of sebum.