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
Recent Examples on the Web
For many people, chemical exfoliants are the go-to for addressing body concerns like keratosis pilaris, acne, or uneven texture.
—
Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 16 Aug. 2025
It’s formulated with a blend of soothing ingredients and gentle exfoliants to help refine skin texture and take down redness.
—Sarah Y. Wu, Glamour, 14 Aug. 2025
Here, in Lancer’s The Method Polish, enzymes and physical exfoliants sync up to reveal a softer, dewier complexion.
—Jenny Berg, Vogue, 13 June 2025
In fact, vitamin C, chemical exfoliants (like glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid), and retinol shouldn’t be used together all at once, since this combination can irritate and inflame the skin (including your existing hyperpigmentation).
—Jenna Ryu, SELF, 1 Aug. 2025
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Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 16 Aug. 2025
It’s formulated with a blend of soothing ingredients and gentle exfoliants to help refine skin texture and take down redness.
—Sarah Y. Wu, Glamour, 14 Aug. 2025
Here, in Lancer’s The Method Polish, enzymes and physical exfoliants sync up to reveal a softer, dewier complexion.
—Jenny Berg, Vogue, 13 June 2025
In fact, vitamin C, chemical exfoliants (like glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid), and retinol shouldn’t be used together all at once, since this combination can irritate and inflame the skin (including your existing hyperpigmentation).
—Jenna Ryu, SELF, 1 Aug. 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 22 Aug. 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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