Exfolia

Exfolia is a term that can refer to several different things, primarily in the context of skincare and sometimes in geological formations.

In skincare, "exfolia" is often used colloquially as a shortened or informal way to refer to the process of exfoliation. Exfoliation is the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This can be achieved through two main methods: physical exfoliation, which involves using scrubs, brushes, or tools to manually slough off dead cells, and chemical exfoliation, which utilizes acids like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to loosen the bonds between dead skin cells. Exfoliation can improve skin texture, brightness, and the absorption of skincare products.

The term "exfolia" can also be used in geology to describe rock formations that exhibit exfoliation. This is a type of weathering where layers of rock peel away from the surface, often resembling the layers of an onion. This process is typically caused by thermal expansion and contraction due to temperature changes, or by the release of pressure when overlying rock is removed. Common examples include granite domes like El Capitan in Yosemite National Park.

It is important to consider the context in which "exfolia" is used to understand its precise meaning.