Written by the ChemicalPeel.org editorial team. Published September 30, 2026.
Clinical review pending. This page has not yet been reviewed by a licensed clinician; read it as patient education, not medical advice. How we review
The name "herbal peel" is slightly misleading. It is not actually a peel in the chemical sense; it is a highly intensive form of physical exfoliation combined with plant-based active ingredients.
How an Herbal Peel Works
In a treatment like the original Schrammek Green Peel, a mixture of dried, crushed herbs (including spirulina, aloe vera, and various botanical extracts) is aggressively massaged into the skin. The micro-particles of the herbs create physical micro-trauma, similar to microneedling or intense microdermabrasion. This triggers the skin's wound-healing response, increasing blood circulation and forcing the upper layers of skin to shed over the next few days.
How a Chemical Peel Works
A chemical peel does not rely on friction. The provider applies an acid solution (like glycolic or TCA) which chemically lowers the pH of the skin. This acidic environment dissolves the desmosomes (the "glue") holding dead skin cells together. The cells detach and shed uniformly without the need for aggressive rubbing.
Which Should You Choose?
Chemical peels offer more precision. A provider knows exactly how deep a 20% TCA peel will penetrate based on the number of layers applied. Herbal peels rely heavily on the pressure applied by the aesthetician's hands, making the depth of treatment less predictable.
If you have active inflammatory acne or rosacea, the aggressive friction of an herbal peel can exacerbate your condition. A chemical peel (specifically salicylic acid) is much safer, as it simply sits on the skin and chemically clears the pores without physical agitation.
