The word "exfoliate" refers to the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This can be done through various methods, such as mechanical scrubbing, chemical treatments, or using specific skincare products designed to promote cell turnover. Exfoliation helps to improve skin texture, unclog pores, and enhance the overall appearance of the skin.
The word "exfoliate" comes from the Latin word "exfoliatus," which is the past participle of "exfoliare." The prefix "ex-" means "out" or "from," and "folium" means "leaf." Thus, it literally means "to strip off leaves," which metaphorically refers to the shedding of dead skin cells.