Topical Estrogen for the Face: Estriol Cream

I am seeing many ads on social media for topical estrogen and estradiol creams for the face to treat wrinkles and skin aging. The one being advertised the most is Alloy M4 Face Cream a face cream with estriol. Do these work? Are they safe, and which ones are best to use? I will discuss the various types of estrogen skin care, natural options and compare the pros and cons of each.

To shop for skin care using your Bauman Skin Type, take our skin care routine quiz.

Estrogen is a great anti-wrinkle cream

Only postmenopausal women with low breast cancer risk should use

Do not use if you have melasma or hyperpigmentation

There are prescription, cosmetic and natural forms of estrogen.

Discuss with your doctor before using

Why Use an Estrogen Face Cream?

There are really only 3 reasons to use an estrogen face cream:

Estrogen deficiency due to loss of ovarian function

Menopause

Transitioning to female gender.

Estrogen Deficiency

If you have had your ovaries removed or your estrogen levels are abnormal due to polycystic ovarian disease, or other disorders, discuss treatments with your doctor.

Menopause

Menopause heralds a new stage in a woman’s life, accompanied by many changes throughout the body, including the skin. My patients often complain of rapid skin aging, hair loss, acne, sun spots, dry skin, and itching during the premenopausal, menopausal, and postmenopausal years. As ovarian function wanes, declining hormonal levels significantly impact skin health and appearance. Understanding the science behind these cutaneous changes can help design the perfect skincare routine for maturing skin during the menopausal transition. The key is to protect the skin from aging with the best menopause skincare, and one promising option is the use of estrogen creams. Note that if you are already taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) you probably do not need an additional estrogen cream. Please discuss with your doctor before using any of these topical estrogens.

Gender Transition to Female

Topical estrogen gets into the skin really easily and goes into the systemic circulation. So topical estrogen creams with greatly affect your hormone status. Please discuss with your gender affirmation care specialist before using any of these estrogen face creams. Hormone therapy is very complex and needs medical oversight.

Fine Lines and Wrinkles in Women

There are many good antiaging creams. The only way to know whichis best for you is to shop using your skin type octagon. When you take our skin type quiz, you will be assigned to 1 of 16 skin types. Once you know your skin type color and number, look for the skin type octagon when shopping for skin care to know if that is the best anti-aging product for you.

Estrogen Creams for Face

Estrogen creams are formulated to address the skin changes that occur with menopause. These creams contain different forms of estrogen, each with unique properties and benefits:

Estradiol : Known for its potency, estradiol is effective in improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles. Available with a doctor’s prescription only.

Estriol : A gentler alternative, estriol is less potent but still beneficial for skin hydration and reducing signs of aging. Available with a doctor’s prescription only.

Methyl Estradiolpropanoate (MEP) : A synthetic derivative that offers stability and effectiveness in skincare formulations. This is found in cosmetic skin creams that do not requre a subscription such as Emepellle.

Xenoestrogens : Synthetic or natural compounds that mimic estrogen in the body, sometimes included in skincare products for their estrogen-like effects.

Bioidenticals : Hormones identical in molecular structure to those the body produces, often used in hormone replacement therapies and increasingly in skincare for their natural effectiveness.

Plant-based Estrogens (Phytoestrogens) : Derived from plants, these estrogens are used in skincare for their gentle, estrogen-like effects, commonly found in ingredients like soy and wild yam.

Below are the estrogen or estrogen analog creams available without a prescription:

Benefits of Estrogen in Skincare

Estrogen creams offer several benefits for aging skin:

Preserves skin elasticity: Maintains elastin levels preventing sagging

Reduces fine lines and wrinkles: Stimulates fibroblasts to produce more collagen types I and III

Enhances skin hydration : Estrogen boosts the production of hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural moisturizer, and strengthens the skin barrier to help skin hold on to water.

Strengthens and thickens skin: With more collagen, HA, and elastin, the skin becomes thicker and more resilient.

Softens and smooths skin and reduces coarse facial hair

Side Effects of Estrogen Creams

While estrogen creams offer many benefits, they also come with potential side effects such as:

Hormonal imbalances

Increased risk of breast and uterine cancer

Melasma

Potential impacts on eczema and rosacea

On the other hand, the association between sex hormones and atopic dermatitis (AD) is less clear. Some studies report no consistent link between sex hormones and AD, while others suggest that fluctuating hormone levels during life stages like pregnancy and menopause can influence AD symptoms. The variability in findings suggests a complex relationship that warrants further research.

Estrogen’s Effects on Melasma

Estrogen will make your melasma worse. Do not use it if you have a any forms of hyperpigmentation.

Estrogen’s Effects on Rosacea

Research shows a significant connection between hormonal factors and the risk of rosacea. Studies indicate that rosacea is often diagnosed during perimenopause and can be influenced by hormonal changes during pregnancy or with the use of oral contraceptives. A study (3) involving 89,062 women found that postmenopausal women had a lower risk of rosacea compared to premenopausal women. However, the use of exogenous hormones, such as postmenopausal hormone therapy and oral contraceptives, was associated with an increased risk of rosacea. This means that estrogens creams used on the face may worsen rosacea. However, if rosacea is caused by hot flashes, the creams may improve rosacea.

Estrogen’s Effects on Eczema

The association between sex hormones and atopic dermatitis (AD) is less clear. Some studies report no consistent link between sex hormones and AD, while others suggest that fluctuating hormone levels during life stages like pregnancy and menopause can influence AD symptoms. The variability in findings suggests a complex relationship that warrants further research.

Safety

Estrogen creams should be used with caution, especially if you have:

A family history of breast cancer

BRCA gene mutation

Melasma or other estrogen-sensitive disorders

Conditions such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids

Pregnancy

Have a history of blood clots

Some tumors, particularly certain types of breast cancer, are known to be estrogen-responsive, meaning that estrogen can promote their growth. Therefore, individuals with a history of such tumors should avoid estrogen creams. Additionally, those with hormone-sensitive conditions should be particularly cautious. The use of estrogen creams can potentially exacerbate these conditions or lead to other health complications. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new skincare regimen that includes estrogen creams, to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.

How Does Estrogen Affect the Skin?

Estrogen plays a significant role in skin health by:

Stimulating fibroblasts : This increases the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid, making the skin thicker, stronger, smoother, and less wrinkled.

Stimulates melanocytes to make pigment

Increasing moisture content : By boosting hyaluronic acid levels, estrogen helps keep the skin hydrated.

Protecting from oxidation : Estrogen has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from oxidative stress.

Loss of estrogen during menopause correlates with reduced collagen types I and IV in the dermis and basement membrane, leading to thinning of the skin, wrinkles, and reduced structural integrity.

Forms of Estrogen in Skincare

Estrogen can be delivered in various forms, each with unique benefits:

Pills : Systemic effects but potential for more side effects.

Patches : Provides a steady release of estrogen through the skin.

Serums and Creams : Direct application to the skin allowing increased estrogen levels in skin

Intravaginal applications : Targeted for vaginal health but can also benefit skin.

Skin Conditions Treated with Estrogen

Estrogen creams can help with various skin conditions, including:

Wrinkles

Dryness

Skin fragility

Sagging skin

Thin skin

Natural Alternatives to Estrogen

For those who prefer natural alternatives, phytoestrogens offer a plant-based option:

Phytoestrogens : Found in soy, flaxseed, and other plants, these compounds mimic estrogen and can improve skin hydration and elasticity.

Herbal extracts : Ingredients like saw palmetto and wild yams are commonly used for their estrogenic effects.

Foods High in Estrogen

Soy products

Flaxseeds

Sesame seeds

Garlic

Peaches

Berries

Estrogen creams can be a valuable addition to skincare routines for women experiencing menopause. By understanding the benefits and potential risks, you can make informed decisions about using estrogen in your skincare regimen. Take our skin care routine quiz to see if these products are right for you. Always consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the best approach for your individual needs.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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