exfoliate
verb
ex·fo·li·ate
(ˌ)eks-ˈfō-lē-ˌāt 
exfoliated; exfoliating
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
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
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
You're left with an exfoliating soap that leaves the user with a functional loofah sponge after the soap is gone.
—
Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Jan. 2025
The formula includes an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates, along with anti-inflammatory ingredients like green tea extract.
—Kristin Canning, SELF, 7 Jan. 2025
These have a fine net-like texture to help remove buildup on the skin to unclog pores and exfoliate all over.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 6 Jan. 2025
In other words, exfoliating during this season is a whole different vibe.
—Larry Stansbury, Essence, 20 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for exfoliate 
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Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Jan. 2025
The formula includes an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates, along with anti-inflammatory ingredients like green tea extract.
—Kristin Canning, SELF, 7 Jan. 2025
These have a fine net-like texture to help remove buildup on the skin to unclog pores and exfoliate all over.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 6 Jan. 2025
In other words, exfoliating during this season is a whole different vibe.
—Larry Stansbury, Essence, 20 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for exfoliate
Dictionary Entries Near exfoliate
Cite this Entry
“Exfoliate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exfoliate. Accessed 19 Jan. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
exfoliate
verb
ex·fo·li·ate
-ˈfō-lē-ˌāt
exfoliated; exfoliating
1
: to cast off in scales or laminae
2
: to remove the surface of in scales or laminae
3
: to shed (teeth) by exfoliation
1
: to split into or give off scales, laminae, or body cells
2
: to come off in thin layers or scales : scale off
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