Paper reviews function and significance of the skin surface hydrolipidic coat, and past and present principles and devices of its measurement. Devices introduced represent Sebumeter which measures colorimetrical changes on the greased plastic belt and one of functional modification of VisioScan device (Sebufix F16) which is normally ušed for profilometry. Both devices can be connected to PC by specific software. VisioScan is able to give not only numeric and graphic results but also 3D image analysis. Devices are ušed in physiological studies, in evaluation of topič drugs and cosmetics, in evaluation of androgen and antiandrogen influence, seborrhoeic states (also in the scalp), acne, systemic and local therapy. Examples of Sebumeter and VisioScan (Sebufix) measurement results are showed.

        Key words: sebum - sebaceous glands - skin surface fatty film - sebum measurement - sebumetry -sebumetry use