rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryexfoliationSurface peeling
noun

exfoliation

eks-foh-lee-AY-shun/eksˌfəʊliˈeɪʃn/

The removal or shedding of thin outer layers.

Gentle exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the skin's surface.

Close-up natural skin-care mitt gently passes over a healthy forearm; tiny dry surface flakes come away, no abrasion or wound.
Etymology
exLatinoff, out of
+foliationLatinleaf

“Off” and “leaf” underlie the image of a surface peeling away in thin, leaf-like layers. Exfoliation names that scaling or peeling process, applied here to the removal of dead skin cells.

In context

Dr Dray0:40
There's physical exfoliation, which uses texture or friction to mechanically remove builtup dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.
Dermatologist's Exfoliation Guide: What You NEED to Know for Face & Body

More examples

  • Too much exfoliation can leave your skin red and sore.
  • Exfoliation causes thin sheets of rock to peel away.
  • This soft washcloth provides mild exfoliation without a scrub.

Forms

exfoliate verb — To remove or shed thin outer layers.

Similar words

peeling
Emphasizes layers coming away, often in visible strips or sheets.
shedding
Covers the loss of material, not necessarily thin layers.