What is the term for fat, water, and waste trapped under the skin?

The term for fat, water, and waste trapped under the skin is "cellulite." This condition manifests as a dimpled or lumpy appearance on the skin, often found on the thighs, hips, and buttocks. Cellulite occurs when the connective tissue beneath the skin pulls down on the fat layers, creating an uneven surface. It is primarily made up of fat, along with water and metabolic waste, which can accumulate as a result of various factors, including hormonal changes, poor diet, lack of exercise, and genetics.

Adipose tissue refers specifically to the body’s fat storage tissue and does not inherently imply the trapping of water and waste under the skin. Cholesterol is a type of fat molecule that is essential for bodily functions but is not related to the appearance of the skin. Erythema indicates redness of the skin typically caused by increased blood flow due to inflammation or injury and does not describe the accumulation of fat, water, and waste. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why cellulite is the correct answer in this context, as it specifically addresses the combination of fat, water, and waste under the skin that creates its characteristic appearance.