Sebum Plugs: What They Are, Causes & Treatment
Discover the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sebum plugs. Learn how to remove and prevent these skin imperfections with expert-approved methods.

Sebum plugs, also known as sebaceous filament plugs or comedones, are small bumps on the skin caused by clogged pores. They can appear on various parts of the body, including the face, scalp, and nose. Within the first few weeks of life, everyone develops sebaceous filaments, which are naturally occurring and harmless. However, when these filaments become clogged with dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria, they can form visible sebum plugs.
Causes and Symptoms of Sebum Plugs
Several factors contribute to the formation of sebum plugs:
- Overproduction of sebum
- Dead skin cells
- Bacteria buildup
- Poor skincare routine
- Genetics
- Hormonal fluctuations
Identifying Sebum Plugs
Sebum plugs can appear differently on various skin types:
- Hard sebum plugs: Typically found on the scalp, these plugs can feel like small bumps under the skin.
- Sebum plugs on face: Usually smaller and more noticeable on the nose, forehead, and chin.
- Sebum plugs scalp: Can cause irritation and inflammation.
Removal and Treatment
Removing sebum plugs requires patience and proper skincare techniques:
1. Professional Treatments
- Sebum plug extraction: Performed by dermatologists or estheticians.
- Chemical peels: Exfoliates skin, unclogging pores.
- Microdermabrasion: Gently removes dead skin cells.
2. At-Home Remedies
- Natural remedies for sebum plugs: Tea tree oil, aloe vera, and salicylic acid.
- Sebum plug removal at home: Use warm compresses, gentle exfoliants, and clay masks.
Prevention
Preventing sebum plugs involves maintaining good skincare habits:
- Cleanse face twice daily
- Exfoliate regularly
- Use non-comedogenic products
- Avoid picking or squeezing plugs
Differentiating Sebum Plugs
It’s essential to distinguish sebum plugs from other skin conditions:
- Keratin plug vs sebum plug: Keratin plugs are harder, usually found on arms and legs.
Best Products for Sebum Plugs
Effective products can help manage sebum plugs:
- Salicylic acid cleansers
- Benzoyl peroxide treatments
- Clay masks
- Non-comedogenic moisturizers
By understanding sebum plugs’ causes, symptoms, and treatment options, individuals can effectively manage and prevent these skin imperfections.
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- Posted by Dayyal Dg.
- Clogged Pores
- Get Rid of Sebum Plugs
- Hard Sebum Plugs
- Hardened Sebum Plugs
- How to Remove Sebum Plugs
- Keratin Plug vs Sebum Plug
- Natural Remedies for Sebum Plugs
- Sebaceous Filament Plugs
- Sebum Buildup
- Sebum Plug Extraction
- Sebum Plug Removal
- Sebum Plug Treatment
- Sebum Plugs
- Sebum Plugs on Face
- Sebum Plugs Scalp
- Skin Care
- Skin Disorders