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

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

An exfoliant, toner, and essence hybrid, this 3-in-1 treatment makes easy work out of caring for your skin. — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 29 July 2026 Owner Bruno Neves uses bison instead of beef fat and also offers deodorants and coffee exfoliants. — Jenna Belhumeur, Los Angeles Times, 27 July 2026 Palm favors a gentle chemical exfoliant over a physical one on the face, and no more than once a week on the body. — Angela Haupt, Time, 7 July 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for exfoliant

Word History

First Known Use

1983, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of exfoliant was in 1983

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exflagellate

exfoliant

exfoliate

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“Exfoliant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exfoliant. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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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

exfoliant

noun

Examples of exfoliant in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Medical Definition

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