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exfoliate

eks-FOH-lee-ayt /ɛksˈfoʊlieɪt/

verbB2SATTOEFL

lifestyletechnical

To wash or rub a part of the body with a granular substance to remove dead skin cells.

Can refer to both mechanical rubbing (scrubs) and chemical peeling (acids) that shed the outer layer of skin.

The story behind the word. Originally used in botany to describe trees shedding their leaves, and in geology to describe rocks peeling off in scales. It wasn't until the 20th century that the beauty industry adopted the term to describe shedding dead skin cells.

Word relationships

peel: Peel often implies a chemical process that dissolves dead skin, whereas exfoliate covers both physical scrubbing and chemical removal.
scrub: Scrub specifically implies a physical, abrasive action to clean or smooth a surface.

Commonly confused with

desquamate: Desquamate is a strictly medical term for skin peeling off in scales, whereas exfoliate is the active, intentional cosmetic process.

Word family

exfoliation (noun): The process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.
exfoliant (noun): A cosmetic product or substance used to remove dead skin cells.

Collocations

exfoliate gently
exfoliate the skin
exfoliating scrub

Example sentences

"It is important to exfoliate your skin regularly to prevent clogged pores and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion." A skincare guide explaining weekly routines.

Memory hook

Think of peeling the 'foliage' (leaves) off a tree. To 'ex-foliate' is to strip away the dead 'leaves' of your skin. Strip away the old leaves of skin.

When not to use

Do not use for simple washing or cleaning that does not involve removing a surface layer of dead cells.

Fun facts

In geology, 'exfoliation' is a form of physical weathering where curved plates of rock peel away from a larger mass, looking remarkably like peeling skin.