If you’ve noticed small, soft bumps on your face that look like whiteheads but never go away, you’re not alone. These harmless spots, often found on the forehead, cheeks, and nose, are known as sebaceous hyperplasia. It’s a common skin condition where the oil glands beneath your skin become enlarged and visible.
According to a 2023 study published in Frontiers in Medicine, around 25% of adults over 40 develop sebaceous hyperplasia, especially those with sun-damaged or oily skin. Though it’s not dangerous, it can be annoying or cosmetically bothersome. Fortunately, there are several reliable ways to treat or reduce these bumps, whether through professional procedures or simple home care.
This article explains what sebaceous hyperplasia is, what causes it, and 12 reliable treatment options, from professional procedures to practical home care tips, to help you deal with it safely and effectively.
What Is Sebaceous Hyperplasia?
Sebaceous hyperplasia happens when your sebaceous glands (the glands that produce oil or sebum) grow larger than usual. These enlarged glands show up as small, skin-colored or yellowish bumps with a soft texture and a tiny dip in the center. You’ll most often find them on the face because that’s where sebaceous glands are more concentrated.
They’re not pimples, cysts, or warts, they don’t hurt or ooze, and they don’t go away on their own quickly. Some people develop just one or two bumps, while others might have clusters, especially on oily skin.
What Causes Sebaceous Gland Hyperplasia?
A few main factors contribute to sebaceous gland hyperplasia:
- As you age, your oil production changes and cell turnover slows, which can make sebaceous glands enlarge.
- Fluctuating androgen levels may overstimulate your sebaceous glands and lead to overgrowth.
- Long-term sun exposure can damage the gland’s structure and encourage abnormal enlargement.
- Inherited traits can increase the likelihood of having overactive or enlarged sebaceous glands.
- Taking certain medications, like steroids or immunosuppressants, can raise your risk of developing sebaceous gland hyperplasia.
- Having oily or acne-prone skin can cause excess sebum production, which may gradually enlarge sebaceous glands.
Now that you know what causes it, let’s move on to what you can actually do about it.
12 Effective Ways to Treat Sebaceous Hyperplasia
Here are 12 evidence-based ways to treat and manage sebaceous hyperplasia, ranging from dermatologist procedures to home-based maintenance.
1. Electrocautery (Electrodessication)
Electrocautery is one of the most effective sebaceous hyperplasia treatments. A fine-tipped needle applies a controlled electric current to target and eliminate the enlarged gland. The area forms a small scab that naturally falls off within a week, revealing smoother skin.
This method is precise and quick, making it ideal for people with just a few bumps. When performed by a trained dermatologist, scarring and pigment changes are minimal. You may feel a light stinging during the session, but it’s tolerable with local numbing.
2. Laser Therapy
Laser therapy focuses on the sebaceous glands while keeping the surrounding skin intact. CO₂, pulsed-dye, or Er:YAG lasers are commonly used to vaporize or shrink the gland.
It’s particularly effective if you have multiple lesions, and it improves overall skin texture too. Downtime is short, just mild redness or swelling for a few days. Although it costs more than other treatments, it provides great cosmetic results and has a low chance of the bumps returning.
3. Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment)
In cryotherapy, your dermatologist applies liquid nitrogen to freeze the sebaceous bump. The cold temperature kills the excess gland tissue, causing the bump to dry up and peel away after a few days.
Cryotherapy is quick, low-cost, and suitable for smaller lesions. People with darker skin should be careful, since it may occasionally cause lighter patches as the skin heals.
4. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic therapy uses a special light and a photosensitizing cream, such as aminolevulinic acid, applied to the affected area. After it’s absorbed, your skin is exposed to a specific wavelength of light that destroys abnormal sebaceous gland cells.
PDT works well for widespread sebaceous gland hyperplasia and offers added benefits like reduced oil production and improved skin tone. However, it may require a few sessions, and you’ll need to avoid direct sunlight for several days after treatment.
5. Oral Retinoids (Isotretinoin)
If you have extensive lesions or recurring bumps, your dermatologist may prescribe isotretinoin, a vitamin A derivative that shrinks sebaceous glands and reduces oil output. It helps prevent new bumps from forming and minimizes recurrence.
This medication is potent and should be used under medical supervision because it can cause side effects like dry skin or higher cholesterol. It’s usually reserved for stubborn or severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments.
6. Topical Retinoids
Topical retinoids like tretinoin, adapalene, or tazarotene regulate skin cell turnover and keep glands from getting clogged. With consistent use, they can reduce existing bumps and help stop new ones from forming.
They also support anti-aging by smoothing fine lines, refining skin texture, and shrinking pores. Begin gradually to prevent irritation, and always use sunscreen because retinoids make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
7. Chemical Peels
Chemical peels remove the top layer of skin using mild acids like glycolic acid or salicylic acid. For sebaceous hyperplasia treatment, they work by dissolving dead cells, unclogging pores, and promoting cell renewal.
Light to medium peels done monthly can gradually reduce the size and number of bumps. Peels also improve overall complexion, reduce oiliness, and make the skin smoother.
8. Microneedling with Radiofrequency (RF)
Microneedling with RF combines tiny needles with controlled radiofrequency heat to target deeper layers of skin. This method helps remodel collagen and reduce sebaceous gland activity without damaging the surface.
It’s effective for people with multiple bumps and those who want overall skin tightening or rejuvenation. After treatment, you’ll notice smoother, firmer skin with fewer visible lesions over time.
9. Manual Extraction by a Professional
If you only have a few lesions, a dermatologist can remove them manually using sterile instruments. This involves gently extracting the gland after puncturing the surface. It’s quick and relatively inexpensive, but only safe when done by a professional.
Attempting to squeeze or pop these bumps yourself can lead to bleeding, infection, or scarring. It’s safest to have a dermatologist perform any extractions.
10. Sebaceous Hyperplasia Treatment at Home
If you prefer natural care or maintenance after professional treatment, a good home routine helps. While sebaceous hyperplasia treatment at home won’t remove bumps entirely, it can slow their growth and keep your skin clearer.
Here’s what you can do:
- Cleanse your skin twice daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.
- Exfoliate two to three times a week using salicylic or lactic acid.
- Apply over-the-counter retinol or niacinamide at night.
- Always wear sunscreen; UV rays make glands enlarge.
Avoid thick, oily skincare products that clog pores.
Consistent care helps maintain results and prevents new bumps from appearing.
11. LED Light Therapy
At-home LED light masks that emit blue and red light can reduce oil production and calm mild inflammation. They’re not as strong as clinical lasers, but regular use can support professional treatments and maintain clearer skin.
For best results, use your LED device for 10–15 minutes, three to four times a week, along with your regular skincare routine.
12. Lifestyle and Skin Habits
Finally, lifestyle plays a big role in managing sebaceous hyperplasia. Healthy habits can balance your skin’s oil production and slow recurrence:
- Stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Eat antioxidant-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts).
- Limit greasy, processed, and high-sugar foods.
- Manage stress, high cortisol increases oil production.
- Avoid tanning or prolonged sun exposure.
Healthy skin starts with consistent daily choices. These habits keep your sebaceous glands balanced and your skin more resilient overall.
A Smarter Way to Care for Your Skin
Sebaceous hyperplasia isn’t dangerous, but you don’t have to just accept it. Combining professional treatment with consistent skincare is the best approach. Whether you choose professional sebaceous hyperplasia removal or maintain results through at-home care, patience and consistency make all the difference.
If you’re uncertain about the best treatment, consult a dermatologist. They can create a plan suited to your skin, budget, and comfort. With patience and proper care, smoother, clearer skin is within reach.