exfoliant
noun
ex·fo·liant
(ˌ)eks-ˈfō-lē-ənt 
-ˈfōl-yənt
-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
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The treatment pairs physical exfoliants like volcanic pumice and charcoal bamboo with chemical exfoliation from niacinamide to resurface the skin and help even skin tone.
—
Iman Balagam, Vogue, 4 Dec. 2025
This cushiony, comforting cream strengthens, softens, and restores, especially for skin that’s dry, compromised, or overworked from retinoids and exfoliants.
—Deanna Pai, Allure, 4 Dec. 2025
It’s also used as a natural exfoliant to remove dead skin cells.
—Merve Ceylan, Health, 22 Nov. 2025
And in terms of exfoliants, use mild ones instead of gritty scrubs or skip them altogether.
—Margaret Buranen, USA Today, 13 Nov. 2025
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Iman Balagam, Vogue, 4 Dec. 2025
This cushiony, comforting cream strengthens, softens, and restores, especially for skin that’s dry, compromised, or overworked from retinoids and exfoliants.
—Deanna Pai, Allure, 4 Dec. 2025
It’s also used as a natural exfoliant to remove dead skin cells.
—Merve Ceylan, Health, 22 Nov. 2025
And in terms of exfoliants, use mild ones instead of gritty scrubs or skip them altogether.
—Margaret Buranen, USA Today, 13 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for exfoliant
Cite this Entry
“Exfoliant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exfoliant. Accessed 14 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
exfoliant
noun
ex·fo·liant
(ˌ)eks-ˈfō-lē-ənt
-ˈfōl-yənt
-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
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