Hypodermis
Definition
The hypodermis, also called the subcutaneous layer or subcutis, is the deepest layer of the skin lying below the dermis. It is composed primarily of adipose tissue (fat cells), connective tissue, and blood vessels. The hypodermis serves several important functions: it provides insulation to regulate body temperature, acts as a shock absorber to protect internal organs and muscles, stores energy in the form of fat, and anchors the skin to underlying bone and muscle. The thickness of the hypodermis varies significantly across different body areas and between individuals. With aging, the hypodermis thins, particularly in the face and hands, contributing to the hollow, gaunt appearance that can occur with age. Loss of subcutaneous fat is one reason skin appears thinner and more fragile in elderly individuals. Dermal fillers are sometimes used to replace lost volume in the hypodermis.
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