What is sebum?

• A. Skin dust.
• B. Water in the skin.
• C. Skin oil that helps to waterproof the skin and hair coat.
• D. A type of sweat.

Answer: (C)

Sebum is the oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands that coats the skin and hair. This oily film helps waterproof and condition the coat, keeping the skin moisturized and the hair supple, which also gives the coat a natural shine. It acts as a protective barrier that can help limit moisture loss and guard against some bacteria and fungi.

It's not dust on the skin, not water in the skin, and not sweat. Dust is debris, water in the skin refers to bodily fluids and hydration, and sweat is a watery secretion from sweat glands used mainly for cooling. In grooming, maintaining a healthy amount of sebum helps the coat stay resilient and less prone to drying out.