Is sebaceous gland hypertrophy in the newborn androgen induced?

Sebaceous gland hypertrophy is almost always present on the face of newborn infants and yet its aetiology is obscure. Androgens, either maternal or fetal, are thought to be related to its development. In a study of the extent and distribution of sebaceous gland hypertrophy in 115 newborn infants, it was found that there was no difference between males and females, and that the condition was more extensive in preterm infants. As circulating testosterone levels are higher in male newborns, and as maternal androgen excretion increases as pregnancy progresses, it is concluded that the appearance of sebaceous gland hypertrophy at birth is independent of androgens and may well be a developmental stage in the maturation of the skin.