Final answer:
Peeling creams, also known as exfoliants or peels, remove dead skin cells from the stratum corneum, aiding in skin health and product absorption.
Step-by-step explanation:
Peeling creams that are rubbed off the skin are called exfoliants or peels. These products are designed to remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells from the stratum corneum, which is the exterior surface of the epidermis. Historically, skin creams have evolved from the mixtures of beeswax, olive oil, and rose water described by the Romans to the use of Vaseline and lanolin in the 19th century. Modern exfoliants may contain a variety of ingredients, including chemicals that promote desquamation, the natural shedding and peeling of skin. This process not only helps in maintaining the cleanliness and healthiness of the skin by removing dead skin cells but also aids in the absorption of other skincare products.