The term 'OUTER LAYERS' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: VENEERS (7 letters) and RINDS (5 letters). Veneers are thin pieces of wood or other material that are used to cover the surface of an object, such as furniture. RINDS are the outer layer of a fruit or vegetable, which is usually removed before eating. Both veneers and RINDS are outer layers that can be peeled away to reveal something else underneath.