Dr Lalitha Badul

This week, we look at the role of fats and oils in the skin. Your skin consists of three layers: the epidermis, which is the outermost layer that is in contact with environment and visible to the world; the dermis, which is the middle layer of the skin and the hypodermis, which is the innermost or lower layer of your skin.

The hypodermis is also called the subcutaneous. It consists mainly of fat cells that form a layer of fatty tissue in the skin. Fat cells in this layer are called lipo¬cytes. Lipocytes make a substance called lipids.

The fat provides us with energy. The fatty layer also acts as a cushion to protect the bone structure and organs.

As we age, the fatty layer becomes thinner, which makes the bones and organs less protected. A thinner fat layer causes the skin to lack that firm. An overproduction of fat cells due to bad eating habits or lack of exercise can cause weight problems or the appearance of cellulite.

Next week we look at the importance of lipids.