#SebaceousHyperplasia is Trending on TikTok. But What is It?

When it comes to facial bumps, it feels like we've already covered everything. Blackheads, whiteheads, comedones, and milia -- could there be much else? It appears so!

Recently, a skin condition known as sebaceous hyperplasia has popped up on TikTok, and now it's a trending hashtag. Maybe you've seen the TikTok videos on your FYP?

With more than 45,0000 views, #sebaceoushyperplasia is having more than its five minutes of fame. But what actually is it, why is it trending on the social media platform, and what can you do about it?

Here's everything there is to know about sebaceous hyperplasia.

WHAT IS SEBACEOUS HYPERPLASIA?

Sebaceous hyperplasia is a common condition of the sebaceous glands, or the oil glands. The condition typically appears as small yellow or skin-colored bumps on the forehead and cheeks.

According to dermatologist, Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, the cause of sebaceous hyperplasia is unknown, but "presents usually in middle age, and is seen more so in lighter-skinned individuals and those with sun exposure."

A common misconception about this skin condition is that it only affects people with oily skin. While oily skin types are at risk, they're not the only ones susceptible to the condition. Hormones play a big role. Androgens stimulate sebaceous glands to create more oil, leading to an overabundance of sebocytes, the cells that make up the sebaceous glands and cause them to expand. 

While sebaceous hyperplasia cysts are considered an overgrowth, dermatologists say they are harmless and not cause for concern. 

WHY HAS IT BECOME A TRENDING HASHTAG ON TIKTOK?

TikTok has always been a place where people open up about everything from pimples and warts to Squid Game and Disney fails. Most recently, the discussion has been placed on the skin condition known as sebaceous hyperplasia.

Everyone from influencers to every day users are talking about it, hashtagging it, and generally just getting familiar with it. So why has it become a trend now?

That remains to be unknown, but there's a significant chance all this time indoors -- and on the web -- has given us time to learn more about our bodies and any potential skin conditions.

TikTok trends aren't all good. But at least this one's made people aware of the condition. 

HOW TO TREAT SEBACEOUS HYPERPLASIA

#1: Don't Squeeze them

Squeezing sebaceous hyperplasia bumps won't help. In addition to there being nothing inside to extract, squeezing can actually cause the bumps to become inflamed. For the sake of your skin, keep your hands off!

#2: Apply a Warm Compress

It won't make it go away but applying a warm compress to your bumps will make them smaller and reduce any associated inflammation. Simply soak a soft cotton towel in hot water, squeeze it out, and drape it over the affected area. Leave it on for several minutes, and repeat until the inflammation subsides. 

#3: Try Retinoids

While DIY treatments generally aren't recommended for treating sebaceous hyperplasia, the derms say prescription-strength retinoids can prove beneficial. Retinoids help prevent the formation of new lesions by boosting cellular turnover. However, they're overall better at preventing the bumps rather than directly treating them.

If your skin's too sensitive for retinol, try using its gentle alternative: bakuchiol. You'll find bakuchiol and glycolic acid in our Glow Bundle. They play a dazzling duet in promoting fresh, glowing skin. 

#4: Wear Sunscreen

It should already be part of your daily skincare routine, but if it's not, it's time to change that!

Since sun exposure plays a role in the presence of sebaceous hyperplasia, daily sun protection is a must. Wearing SPF 30 every day may help prevent the onset or worsening of the condition. Plus, it comes with anti-aging benefits!

#5: Attack it with Skincare

Certain skincare ingredients can be effective in addressing sebaceous hyperlasia. For starters, salicylic acid can be helpful in reducing bumps thanks to its exfoliating abilities. Another good ingredient is niacinamide, or vitamin B3. When they collab, salicylic and niacinamide work best at regulating excessive sebum production, repairing the skin's barrier, and reducing sebaceous hyperplasia. 

For best results, use cleansers and creams infused with these ingredients once or twice a day. They can only be effective once part of your daily routine. Otherwise, you will not see much of a difference.

#5: Consider Laser Therapy

While skincare products and preventative measures can help, the best and quickest way to treat sebaceous hyperplasia is to book an in-office treatment, like laser therapy. 

Laser therapy uses pulsed lasers and resurfacing lasers to flatten and eliminate lesions. As there are a number of lasers to choose from, it's best to sit down with your dermatologist to evaluate your skin and decide on the best laser for your skin.

#6: Try Electrocautery

Dermatologists say it is a quick, effective, and proven treatment for sebaceous hyperplasia.

"This procedure involves the use of an electrical cautery needle to burn the lesions using thermal energy induced by the electrical charge it creates," explains dermatologist Dr. Rachel E. Maiman. 

She adds, "In most cases, a small curette is then used to scrape away the lesions. In other cases, the practitioner may elect to leave the lesions alone. In either case, the patient walks out of the office with a small superficial burn at the treatment site."

It may sound painful, but it is a proven treatment for this skin condition. 

Sebaceous hyperplasia is actually far more common than you'd think. It's only became so well-known since becoming a trending topic on TikTok. While sebaceous hyperplasia isn't dangerous or something to be worried about, esthetics-wise, people aren't happy with having it on their skin.

Fortunately, you do have options. Above, we've created a list of treatment and preventative options especially foryou, so you no longer have to deal with sebaceous hyperplasia bumps. 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding bumps on your skin, consult your dermatologist or doctor as soon as possible. It may be another condition.