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

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.

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 Gupta recommends chemical exfoliants that are mild enough for aging skin. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Apr. 2026 Chemical exfoliants help, but the approach matters. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 27 Apr. 2026 Upcoming products from Lisa Hanna Beauty could include a face and body exfoliant and a vitamin-rich lip treatment. — Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 14 Apr. 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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Style

“Exfoliant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exfoliant. Accessed 7 Jul. 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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