When we hear the word “fat,” our thoughts may turn to an image of a big belly, love handles, thick thighs, or a double chin. Those are all the result of collections of large fat cells, to be sure, but fat is more than a dreaded creator of rolls and bulges. There are actual two types of body fat classifications. Charleston, SC’s Germain Dermatology works to educate patients on the differences between the two—in addition to slimming down the areas where the less-desirable kind is known to gather.

About 90 percent of all body fat should be what is known as subcutaneous fat, found just beneath the skin. This is the fat that provides contours and roundness in the face and elsewhere. It can diminish over time, leading to a hollow, aged look on the face, where sunken cheeks are not typically seen as desirable.

Too much subcutaneous fat can provide too much roundness, however. Subcutaneous fat is pinchable and can gather on the abdomen, upper arms and legs, sides, back, and neck, as well as beneath the buttocks.

Fortunately, subcutaneous fat is susceptible to cold temperatures, which is how CoolSculpting® works to reduce the number of fat cells in a treatment area.

The remaining 10 percent of a person’s fat is visceral, which is found deeper in the body and typically works to surround and protect internal organs. Though it may be less of a cosmetic concern overall, it can still contribute to a large, bulging belly—as well as several serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Exercise and diet are ideal strategies for taming visceral fat, especially since these fat cells are far too deep in the body to be impacted by the cold from a CoolSculpting® treatment.

To learn more about body fat classifications and what CoolSculpting® can do, contact CoolSculpting Charleston at Germain Dermatology by calling 1-844-SC-CHILL or sending a message online.