exfoliation

American  

[eks-foh-lee-ey-shuhn] / ɛksˌfoʊ liˈeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act, state, or process of exfoliating.

2. the state of being exfoliated.

3. something that is exfoliated or scaled off.

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exfoliation Scientific  

/ ĕks-fō′lē-ā′shən /

1. The process in which layers of tissue peel or are peeled off an organism, such as the distinctive ways in which bark peels off a tree in strips or flakes.

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Etymology

Origin of exfoliation

1670–80; New Latin exfoliātiōn- (stem of exfoliātiō ). See exfoliate, -ion

Explanation

Scrub the dead skin off your face and enjoy some exfoliation! It sounds gross but feels really good. Exfoliation is the process of buffing off the outer layer of skin cells or shedding parts of a surface. Exfoliation often refers to something people have done at a spa, but it’s not just for humans. A tree's exfoliation involves its bark being peeled off or leaves falling off. You could also call a snake shedding its entire scaly skin exfoliation (though it's officially known as ecdysis or shedding). When a plant loses its leaves, it's exfoliation — this is appropriate since exfoliation stems from the Latin exfoliare, "to strip of leaves."

Example Sentences

In fact, countless sources praise yogurt for its skin care benefits, citing everything from lactic acid’s gentle exfoliation effects to its probiotic properties.

From Slate • Feb. 22, 2025

Despite this, both α-Al2O3 and γ-LiAlO2 layers demonstrated strong resistance to exfoliation.

From Science Daily • Nov. 25, 2024

After changing, the service began with a foot wash and exfoliation, followed by the treatment on a pre-warmed massage table.

From Salon • Oct. 23, 2024

The $120, 45-minute treatment is designed for people 11 to 15 years old and includes a double cleanse, mild exfoliation and, if necessary, extractions to clear out clogged pores.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 10, 2024

The term exfoliation is sometimes employed to indicate the separation or throwing off of a superficial sequestrum.

From Manual of Surgery Volume First: General Surgery. Sixth Edition. by Thomson, Alexis