Exfoliating: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'exfoliare,' meaning 'to strip off leaves.'
• It was first used in the context of skin care in the early 1980s but has roots in older practices.

Cultural Practices

• In ancient Egypt, people used natural scrubs to exfoliate their skin, often with crushed pumice stone.
• Japanese geisha were known to use rice bran to exfoliate and brighten their skin, a practice that continues today.

Science

• The skin naturally regenerates every 28 days, but exfoliating accelerates this process by removing dead cells.
• Dermatologists recommend exfoliation for oily skin to help clear clogged pores and prevent acne.

Beauty Industry

• Exfoliating products are available in many forms - scrubs, acids, and tools, making it accessible for different skin types.
• The popularity of exfoliating has led to the rise of many skincare lines focusing on this step for a healthy glow.

Health and Wellness

• Over-exfoliating can lead to skin irritation, so it's important to do it in moderation for skin health.
• Exfoliation can improve the effectiveness of other skincare products by allowing them to penetrate better into the skin.