What are sebaceous hyperplasia?

People with sebaceous hyperplasia have small yellow-whitish bumps on the face. These bumps are benign enlargements of facial oil glands. When inspected through a magnifying glass, a tiny central pore can be seen.

Since these glands are deep under the skin, they cannot be completely removed without leaving a mark or scar. However, they can be made smaller and flatter by various treatments.

No one knows why these oil glands enlarge. Sun damage has been suggested as a contributing factor. Also, age may play a role, as he older a person gets, the more sebaceous hyperplasia may develop.