Which layer of skin is responsible for fat storage?
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The hypodermis is the bottom layer of skin. Also known as subcutaneous tissue, the hypodermis insulates and protects the body, stores energy (fat), helps to regulate body temperature, and connects the skin to muscles and bones. Show
The hypodermis is one of the three layers of human skin, the others being the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (middle layer). Together, these layers provide a barrier against fluids, infection, and trauma. This article discusses the hypodermis layer of the skin. It explains the anatomy and function of the subcutaneous tissue. It also covers potential health conditions and the effect of aging on the hypodermis. The hypodermis is the innermost or subcutaneous layer of the skin. Most of the body's fat is stored in this layer. It provides insulation, protection, temperature regulation, and connection between the bones and muscles. StructureThe hypodermis contains collagen, fibers, adipose tissue (fat cells), connective tissue, larger nerves and blood vessels. It also includes macrophages, cells that are part of the immune system and help keep your body free of intruders. LocationThe hypodermis is the innermost layer of the skin located under the dermis (outer layer) and the epidermis (middle layer). The thickness of the hypodermis varies in different regions of the body and can vary considerably between different people. The hypodermis layer also provides shaping and contouring. For those assigned male at birth, the hypodermis is thickest in the abdomen and shoulders. Whereas the hypodermis for those assigned female at birth is generally thickest in the hips, thighs, and buttocks. FunctionThe functions of the hypodermis include:
Connective tissue also supports structures such as nerves and blood vessels. Associated ConditionsThe following are medical disorders and procedures related to this unique layer of the skin. Hypothermia and OverheatingThe hypodermis is essential for body temperature regulation. It traps heat, protects you from the cold, and causes sweating, protecting you from the heat. With age, the hypodermis thins. This is one of the reasons that older people are more prone to hypothermia. Thinning of the hypodermis may also mean that you sweat less. Lack of sweating can lead to health conditions such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. InjectionsMedications can be injected into different areas of the body, such as the vein (intravenous or IV), muscle, under the dermis (intradermal), or in the hypodermis (subcutaneous layer). Medications given by
subcutaneous injection (subQ) are absorbed more slowly than drugs given by intravenous injection. This makes subQ injections an ideal route for many drugs, especially those that are self-administered. Examples of medications that may be given by subQ injection include:
Some medications can only be given through one route, while others can be given through multiple routes. It depends on the type and goal of the medication and how it's best absorbed in the body. ObesityBody fat in the hypodermis layer is called subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). This is different than visceral adipose tissue (VAT) that lines internal organs. Excess fat in either area leads to obesity. Both types of fat have received a lot of attention in recent years due to the growing rate of obesity. Studies note that not all body fat is equal, at least with respect to its role in metabolic syndrome and heart disease. The Hypodermis and AgingWhile the hypodermis is not visible, it can dramatically affect the appearance of the skin. This is due to the way aging impacts the skin, specifically in the area of the face and neck. With aging, the volume of facial fat decreases, and there is less supportive tissue to support the normal turgor or elasticity of the skin. As a result, the facial skin
begins to droop and sag, resulting in a look that can be interpreted as appearing tired. The bones and muscles of the face also lose volume. SummaryThe hypodermis is the innermost layer of the skin. It stores fat and energy, pads and protects the body, attaches skin to the bones and muscle, and is very important in maintaining body temperature. This
layer of the skin thins with age, increasing the risk for hypothermia or heat exhaustion. It provides shaping and contour. The thickness varies per person, with excess fat in this layer leading to obesity. The hypodermis layer can be used for injections with some types of medication. Frequently Asked Questions
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Brandi Jones, MSN-ED RN-BC Thanks for your feedback! How does the skin store fat?The deepest layer (subcutis)
The subcutis (also known as the subcutaneous layer or hypodermis) is mostly made up of fat and connective tissue. In the subcutis, between the folds of dermis that bulge into it, there are tiny cavities. These cavities are filled with storage tissue made out of fat and water.
Which layer of the skin plays an important role in fat storage and insulation?The hypodermis is the bottom layer of skin in your body. It has many important functions, including storing energy, connecting the dermis layer of your skin to your muscles and bones, insulating your body and protecting your body from harm.
What layer of the skin stores fats that are needed to keep our body warm?The subcutaneous fat layer is the deepest layer of skin. It consists of a network of collagen and fat cells. It helps conserve the body's heat and protects the body from injury by acting as a shock absorber.
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