exfoliate

verb

ex·​fo·​li·​ate (ˌ)eks-ˈfō-lē-ˌāt 

exfoliated; exfoliating

transitive verb

1

: to cast off in scales, laminae, or splinters

2

: to remove the surface of in scales or laminae

3

: to spread or extend by or as if by opening out leaves

intransitive verb

1

: to split into or give off scales, laminae, or body cells

2

: to come off in thin layers or scales

3

: to grow by or as if by producing or unfolding leaves

exfoliation

(ˌ)eks-ˌfō-lē-ˈā-shən 

noun

exfoliative

eks-ˈfō-lē-ˌā-tiv 

adjective

Synonyms of exfoliate

• shed
• peel

Examples of exfoliate in a Sentence

a soap that promises to help me exfoliate all that dry, flaky skin I've apparently been carrying around

Recent Examples on the Web

This shampoo, for instance, contains salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and stimulate the scalp as well as strengthening molecules that penetrate deep into the cortex to minimize breakage. — Ellie Davis, Vogue, 22 Oct. 2026

At-home chemical peels can help maintain certain results by exfoliating dead skin cells, smoothing texture, and gradually fading lingering discoloration. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 21 Oct. 2026

Just below the pool area is the spa, which features a Finnish sauna, treatment room, and a plunge pool surrounded by cellars of sea salt used to exfoliate the body. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 Oct. 2026

For the skincare enthusiast who knows her serums from her essences, an exfoliating cleanser from DIME Beauty can be a thoughtful addition to her routine. — Ethan Stone october 9, Idaho Statesman, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin exfoliatus, past participle of exfoliare to strip of leaves, from Latin ex- + folium leaf — more at blade

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for exfoliate

• trifoliate

Medical Definition

exfoliate

verb

ex·​fo·​li·​ate -ˈfō-lē-ˌāt 

exfoliated; exfoliating

transitive verb

1

: to cast off in scales or laminae

2

: to remove the surface of in scales or laminae

3

: to shed (teeth) by exfoliation

intransitive verb

1

: to split into or give off scales, laminae, or body cells

2

: to come off in thin layers or scales : scale off