Patient-Friendly Explanation

Subcutaneous fat is the soft, pinchable fat that sits just under your skin, especially around your thighs, hips, and belly. Unlike the deeper visceral fat around your organs, subcutaneous fat is generally less harmful to your health. Everyone has some subcutaneous fat, as it insulates the body and stores energy.

Clinical Definition

Subcutaneous adipose tissue is the fat layer located beneath the dermis and above the underlying muscle fascia, accounting for roughly 80-90 percent of total body fat. Although it is metabolically less harmful than visceral adipose tissue, excess subcutaneous fat in the abdominal region can still contribute to insulin resistance and mechanical strain, and in obesity it may adopt a more inflammatory profile.

Why It Matters

Knowing the difference between subcutaneous and visceral fat helps you target your weight loss plan and measure progress accurately. NuLifeCare Singapore uses body composition analysis to track both fat types, so you can see real and healthy change.