The Skin’s Subcutaneous Fat Layer

Next beneath to the dermis is the third layer of the skin. It is the subcutaneous fat layer. From the outermost to innermost, the epidermis, dermis and fat layer form the skin. This fat layer is also called the hypodermis or hypoderm.

When compared to the dermis, blood vessels and larger glands can be found in the hypoderm. The layer also supports transfer of nutrients and control of body temperature. Many hair follicle roots can also be found here.

This layer is mostly made up of fat-containing cells. These are called adipose cells. Primarily, adipose cells store fat for body use. They expand while storing fat, making it readily accessible by the body. The cells collapse when fat is used. Groups of adipose cells form adipose tissues. Adipose tissues act as a cushion to protect internal organs from trauma.

In addition, the more important function of adipose tissues is to work as connectives. These tissues connect the layer of fat, and the rest of the skin, to the muscles and bones. Notice that the skin is slightly movable. This is because the connective tissues are elastic. However, they are tough enough not to let the entire skin shift or peel away.

Note that adipose tissues are fat deposits. If fat is not used and continuously deposited, they fill up the hypoderm. They form bulks at the connection points. These phenomena result in the dreaded cellulites.

For most animals, they use their hair or fur to keep themselves warm. The fatty layer also serves as protection from extreme temperatures. Fat is not a good conductor of heat. Therefore, it reflects heat during warm days and retains it during winter. Humans, in the absence of much hair or fur, depend more on fats to modulate temperature.

Finally, a big portion of the skin’s lymphatic system is in the layer of fat. The white blood cells here act as primary combat-line of the body against bacteria, viruses and infection.