Abstract: A device for collecting sebum which is secreted from the sebaceous glands of a subject includes a microporous, hydrophobic polymeric film which is opaque to light when the pores are filled with gaseous material and which is substantially translucent when the film pores are filled with sebum. The film is mounted to a substrate which includes a light absorbing area for enhancing visualization of the film pores when filled with sebum.

Abstract: A device for sampling the surface of the skin includes a substrate having a light absorbing area disposed thereon. A layer of adhesive is disposed on the substrate overlying the light absorbing area. The adhesive layer is optically clear and under pressure conforms to the surface of the skin to be sampled. A removable protective film is disposed on the adhesive layer for protecting the adhesive layer prior to use of the device.

Abstract: Means for absorbing sebum screted by sebacious glands of a subject as well as providing semi-quantitative estimation of the rate of sebum production at various sites on the subject's skin and a record of excretion patterns on the skin, said means comprising a microporous hydrophobic polymeric film substrate coated on a major surface with a high molecular weight adhesive that is resistant to migration into the pores of the polymeric film. Said means may also be used to provide therapy by absorbing excess sebum or delivering medication to sites or abnormal sebum secretion. Method for ascertaining secretion patterns on the skin by applying to the skin for a preselected time a microporous, hydrophobic, polymeric film.