Which type of fat is located directly under the skin?

Subcutaneous fat is the type of fat that is located directly beneath the skin. This fat serves several important functions, including providing insulation to help regulate body temperature, acting as a cushion to protect muscles and bones, and being a form of energy storage. Subcutaneous fat can vary in amount from person to person and can play a role in body composition and overall health.

In contrast, visceral fat is situated deeper in the abdomen and surrounds vital organs, posing different health risks. Intramuscular fat is found within the muscle tissue itself and is involved in energy metabolism. Essential fat is necessary for normal physiological functions, including hormone production and nutrient absorption, but it is not specifically located under the skin like subcutaneous fat. Thus, the identification of subcutaneous fat accurately reflects its anatomical position and relevance to overall fat distribution in the body.