What does exfoliation refer to in the context of skincare?

Exfoliation in the context of skincare specifically refers to the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This is typically achieved through gentle, non-invasive methods. Non-invasive means that these methods do not penetrate deeper layers of the skin, thereby minimizing the risk of irritation or damage associated with more invasive techniques.

The correct choice highlights the importance of using gentle methods to achieve effective exfoliation, which can lead to smoother skin texture, improved appearance, and better absorption of subsequent skincare products. This gentle approach is paramount in maintaining the skin’s health and balance, making it ideal for most skin types.

In contrast, the other options either imply invasive techniques that could harm the skin or refer to unrelated processes like applying makeup or using harsh chemicals, which do not align with the principles of exfoliation in skincare.