EXFOLIATION
scale, scurf, exfoliation
(noun) a thin flake of dead epidermis shed from the surface of the skin
exfoliation
(noun) the peeling off in flakes or scales of bark or dead skin; “exfoliation is increased by sunburn”
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Etymology
Noun
exfoliation (countable and uncountable, plural exfoliations)
The scaling off of a bone, a rock, or a mineral, etc.; the state of being exfoliated.
The loss of leaves from a plant.
The removal of a layer of skin, as in cosmetic preparation.
Source: Wiktionary
Ex*fo`li*a"tion, n. Etym: [Cf. F. exfoliation.]
Definition: The scaling off of a bone, a rock, or a mineral, etc.; the
state of being exfoliated.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition