Which type of body fat is primarily located under the skin?

Subcutaneous fat is the type of body fat that is primarily located directly under the skin. It serves several important functions, including acting as an energy reserve, providing insulation to help regulate body temperature, and offering a protective cushion for underlying tissues and organs. This layer of fat is distinct from visceral fat, which is found around internal organs; this type of fat is linked to higher health risks. Essential fat, on the other hand, is vital for bodily functions and is found in small amounts within organs, bone marrow, and the central nervous system. Nonessential fat refers to extra fat stored in the body that can accumulate beyond what is necessary for energy and overall function, but does not specifically denote its location under the skin. Thus, subcutaneous fat is the accurate answer in this context, as it explicitly refers to the fat that resides directly underneath the skin.