exfoliate
8 synonyms for exfoliate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To remove dead cells from the surface of the skin by rubbing it with a scrub, cloth or chemical treatment.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. 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.”
How to use exfoliate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
exfoliate the skin
gently exfoliate
exfoliate twice a week
exfoliating scrub
Etymology
From Latin exfoliare ('to strip of leaves'), from ex ('off') plus folium ('leaf').
Full origin of 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.
