The effect of environment on sebum output and composition in cattle

In an investigation into the effect of short-term exposure to different temperatures and humidities on the sebaceous glands of Ayrshire calves it was concluded that temperature had no appreciable effect on sebum output or its fatty acid composition. At a low humidity, however, the cutaneous outputs of palmitic and myristic acids were higher. On prolonged exposure to a warm environment, a higher output of sebum occurred together with an increase in the percentage of linoleic acid in the sebum.