exfoliant

noun

ex·​fo·​liant (ˌ)eks-ˈfō-lē-ənt  -ˈfōl-yənt 

: a mechanical or chemical agent (such as an abrasive skin wash or salicylic acid) that is applied to the skin to remove dead cells from the surface

Examples of exfoliant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Tata Harper's Regenerating Cleanser pairs gentle physical exfoliants with willow bark and pink clay to whisk away dead skin cells, excess oil, and buildup that can make skin look dull. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 June 2026

Adding an exfoliant to your summer skin care routine can help smooth texture, clear the buildup of dead skin cells, and brighten dark spots. — Irene Richardson, InStyle, 20 June 2026

And compared with stronger anti-aging ingredients like retinoids or chemical exfoliants, copper peptides are generally considered less irritating and are often well-tolerated by sensitive skin. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 13 June 2026

These can include retinoids, AHAs (such as glycolic and lactic acids), BHAs (like salicylic acid), and mechanical exfoliants. — Giulia Lenzi, Vogue, 14 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1983, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

exfoliant

noun

ex·​fo·​liant (ˌ)eks-ˈfō-lē-ənt  -ˈfōl-yənt 

: a mechanical or chemical agent (as an abrasive skin wash or salicylic acid) that is applied to the skin to remove dead cells from the surface

called also exfoliator