verb

exfoliate

eks-FOH-lee-ayt

Exfoliate (verb) means to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin by rubbing it with a scrub, cloth or chemical treatment. Example: “Exfoliate twice a week and always follow with moisturiser.”

verb

To remove dead cells from the surface of the skin by rubbing it with a scrub, cloth or chemical treatment.

"Exfoliate twice a week and always follow with moisturiser."

"She exfoliates her elbows before applying fake tan."

Of skin, rock or bark, to come away in thin flakes or layers.

"Sunburnt skin will exfoliate within a few days."

"The granite exfoliates in curved sheets as the surface weathers."

How to Use Exfoliate

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo rub or treat your skin so the dead top layer comes off.

Memory tip

'Exfoliate' is the verb, 'exfoliation' the process and 'exfoliant' the product you use; do not confuse it with 'defoliate', which means to strip leaves from plants.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

defoliate exfoliant → exfoliation

Common pairings

exfoliate the skin gently exfoliate exfoliate twice a week exfoliating scrub

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_____ twice a week and always follow with moisturiser.

Etymology

From Latin exfoliare ('to strip of leaves'), from ex ('off') plus folium ('leaf').

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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scrub slough buff polish flake peel shed scale

Related Words

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Rhymes for exfoliate

ate date rate mate fate abate slate plate state grate create update

See all rhymes for exfoliate →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between physical and chemical exfoliation?

Physical exfoliation removes dead cells by friction, using a scrub, brush or cloth. Chemical exfoliation uses acids or enzymes, such as glycolic or salicylic acid, to loosen the bonds between dead cells so they fall away. Chemical methods are usually gentler because they need no scrubbing.

How often should you exfoliate?

For most skin types, once or twice a week is enough, and sensitive skin may need less. Redness, tightness, stinging or new breakouts are signs of over-exfoliating, in which case stop for a week or two and rebuild slowly.

Should you exfoliate before or after cleansing?

After. Cleanse first to lift off make-up, oil and grime, then exfoliate on clean skin so the scrub or acid can reach the surface properly. Moisturiser and sunscreen come afterwards, since freshly exfoliated skin burns more easily.

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