In skin care, what does the term "exfoliation" refer to?

Exfoliation refers to the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This is important in skincare as it promotes cell turnover, allowing newer, healthier skin cells to emerge and helps improve skin texture and appearance. Exfoliation can also aid in preventing clogged pores, which can lead to acne and other skin issues. Understanding this process is essential for effective skincare, as it enhances the effectiveness of other products applied afterward, such as moisturizers and serums.

The other options pertain to different aspects of skin care. Moisturizers are meant to hydrate and replenish the skin, massaging the skin involves techniques that can improve circulation and relaxation, and serums are concentrated formulas used to target specific skin concerns. However, none of these directly involve the action of removing dead skin cells, which is the core function of exfoliation.