Hudlagret

Hudlagret is a term used in Norwegian and Danish to describe the skin layer, or more broadly the skin as a layered organ. In everyday language it often refers to the outer skin layer, the epidermis, which forms the primary barrier between the body and the environment.

Anatomically, the skin consists of three main layers: the epidermis on the outside, the dermis beneath it, and the hypodermis (subcutaneous tissue) below. The epidermis includes sublayers such as the stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, and the outermost stratum corneum. The stratum corneum is composed largely of dead keratinocytes embedded in intercellular lipids and provides the main barrier against water loss and external factors.

The hudlagret performs several key functions, especially barrier maintenance and hydration. It protects against mechanical, chemical, and microbial stress, and regulates transepidermal water loss. Lipids such as ceramides, cholesterol, and free fatty acids within the epidermal layer are critical for its integrity. When the hudlagret is disrupted, dryness, irritation, and inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema can result.

Care and treatment aim to support and restore this barrier. Effective approaches include regular use of moisturizers containing ceramides and humectants (like glycerin or urea), occlusives (such as petrolatum) to reduce water loss, and gentle cleansing. Sun protection and avoiding irritants also help preserve hudlagret. In dermatology and cosmetic contexts, the concept is used to discuss skin health and products designed to support the skin’s outer layer.