the fat found just under the skin that gives it a plump, padded look. Loss of this fat is associated with lipodystrophy.

The bottom layer of your skin is composed primarily of fat cells. This part of your skin acts as an insulator, keeping you warm and protecting underlying tissue from shocks and bumps. It's also the place where your hair begins — each hair follicle all over your body has its roots in the subcutaneous layer.

Subcutaneous fat sits just below the skin. This is as opposed to omental (deep abdominal) fat.