exfoliant

noun

: 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
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Infused with salicylic acid—a BHA known for unclogging the pores and reducing inflammation—this liquid exfoliant is a Vogue editor all-star for taking care of blackheads. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 13 June 2025 Plus, as the founder of skincare company Tatcha, Tsai also gave Meghan a demo on making masks and exfoliants. Jordana Comiter, People.com, 6 Mar. 2025 This week the brand, which already offers moisturizers, cleansers, serums, masks and exfoliants, broke into the SPF category with a factor 50 sunscreen for the face and body that features 20 percent zinc oxide. Hikmat Mohammed, WWD, 5 Mar. 2025 But skin-care products and habits, like harsh chemical exfoliants and cleansing too often (yes, that’s a thing), can inadvertently harm the skin's moisture barrier, which is the outermost layer of the skin (also known as the epidermis) that guards against external stressors. Sarah Han, Allure, 4 Mar. 2025 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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Cite this Entry

“Exfoliant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exfoliant. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

exfoliant

noun
: 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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