Hypodermis

• The hypodermis is the bottom layer of skin. Also known as subcutaneous tissue, the hypodermis insulates and protects the body, stores energy (in the form of fat), helps to regulate body temperature, and connects the skin to muscles and bones
• The hypodermis contains adipose tissue, which is stored body fat and has important functions such as insulation.
• 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
• The hypodermis consists of

  • Fibroblasts
  • Adipose tissue
  • Connective tissue
  • Blood vessels
  • Lymphatic vessels
  • Hair follicles
  • Nerves
• Connective tissue - dense, fibrous tissues made up of collagen and elastin that supports, protects and gives structure to other tissues and organs in the body
• Lymphatic vessels - These help regulate fluid levels in the body, receive waste products from tissues, and transport a fluid called lymph that defends the body against infection
• Nerves - Large nerves pass through the hypodermis to the surface of the skin, including sensory nerves that register pain, temperature, and pressure