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.
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.
[[ctaquiz]]
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:
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:
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.
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.
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.
Estrogen can influence the overall appearance of the face by maintaining skin firmness and preventing sagging, which can impact the shape and contours of the face. Face shape changes after menopause.
How long does it take for estrace and estrogen creams to work?
Estrogen creams typically take about 6 months to show significant results. Consistent application of a skin care routine that is right for your Baumann Skin Type is key to achieving the best outcomes.
What are selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and how do they work?
SERMs are compounds that selectively bind to estrogen receptors, acting as either agonists or antagonists depending on the tissue type. They are used to mimic the beneficial effects of estrogens in certain tissues while avoiding negative effects, such as those on the endometrium and breast tissue.
Is Alloy M4 Face Cream good for wrinkles?
If you are post menopausal with no family history of breast or uterine cancer and you do not have melasma, this prescription face cream might be right for you.
When in my face routine do I use estrogen or estriol cream?
You can use topical estrogen in one of our custom skin care routines in step 3 of your night regimen. (Just replace our night time step 3 recommendation with an estrogen or estriol cream). Take our quiz to see what other products to use estriol or estrogen with in your routine.
What do dermatologist reviews say about Alloy M4 Face Cream?
Alloy M4 cream contains Estriol, a gentle form of estrogen used to improve skin health. Estriol helps boost collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It also improves skin hydration, making it smoother and more youthful. Alloy M4 is particularly beneficial for women experiencing menopausal skin changes. However, this cream can worsen hyperpigmentation, dark spots, sun spots and melasma. Do not use if you are a pigmented Baumann Skin Type.
This cream requires a prescription, ensuring it is used safely and effectively under medical supervision.
Best References and Scientific Publications on Topical Estrogen Creams:
Baumann L. Antiaging Ingredients in Ch. 37 of Baumann's Cosmetic Dermatology Ed 3. (McGraw Hill 2022)
Baumann, L. Ch. Cosmeceuticals and Cosmetic Ingredients (McGraw Hill 2015)
Geng H, Cho E, Drucker A, Parulkar I, Qureshi A, Li W. Reproductive and hormonal factors and risk of rosacea in US women. J Invest Dermatol. 2017;137(5):S33. doi:10.1016/j.jid.2017.02.208
Prevalence of rosacea in transgender and gender diverse populations: A retrospective cohort study Sanz, J. et al. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, Volume 142, Issue 8, S25
Baumann, L. (2005). A dermatologist’s opinion on hormone therapy and skin aging. Fertility and Sterility, 84(2), 289-290.
Rzepecki, A. K., Murase, J. E., Juran, R., Fabi, S. G., & McLellan, B. N. (2019). Estrogen-deficient skin: the role of topical therapy. International journal of women's dermatology, 5(2), 85-90.
Schmidt, J. B., Binder, M., Demschik, G., Bieglmayer, C., & Reiner, A. (1996). Treatment of skin aging with topical estrogens. International journal of dermatology, 35(9), 669-674.
Shah, M. G., & Maibach, H. I. (2001). Estrogen and skin: an overview. American journal of clinical dermatology, 2, 143-150.
Cohen, J., & Downie, J. (2022). An Open-Label Study Evaluating the Periorbital Skin Rejuvenation Efficacy of a Cosmeceutical Containing Methyl Estradiolpropanoate (MEP) in Women With Estrogen Deficient Skin (EDS). Journal of Drugs in Dermatology: JDD, 21(11), 1185-1190.
Cohen, J. L. (2019). Evaluation of efficacy of a skin care regimen containing methyl estradiolpropanoate (MEP) for treating estrogen deficient skin. J. Drugs Dermatol, 18, 1226-1230.
Abdalla, Z. A. A., Elabbas, S. F., Saeed, L., ME, E. E., & Mohamed, H. E. (2024). The Effect of Topical Estrogen in Skin Aging Process in Estrogen Deficiency Skin. Clinical Research and Clinical Trials, 9(6).
Draelos, Z. D. (2018). A double-blind randomized pilot study evaluating the safety and efficacy of topical MEP in the facial appearance improvement of estrogen deficient females. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology: JDD, 17(11), 1186-1189.
Lephart, E. D., & Naftolin, F. (2022). Factors influencing skin aging and the important role of estrogens and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 1695-1709.
[ { "affiliateCode": "BSWD115", "locationType": "Primär", "Kontoname": "Jonathan Richey, DO, MHA", "Praxisname": "Baylor Scott & White Dermatologie-Spezialisten", "Straße": "5236 W University Drive #2200", "Stadt": "McKinney", "Staat": "TX", "zip": 75071, "Telefon": "(469) 800-5325", "Website": "dermmckinney.com", "bookingLink": "https://www.bswhealth.com/locations/dermatology-specialists", "E-Mail": "jonathan.richey@gmail.com", "practicelabel": "McKinney, Texas", "skinType": "", "mdName": "Jonathan Richey, DO, MHA", "mdTitle": "Von der STS anerkannter Arzt", "practiceDesc": "Ganz gleich, ob Ihr dermatologisches Anliegen gesundheitlicher oder kosmetischer Natur ist, Dr. Jonathan Richey und sein Team aus in Dermatologie ausgebildeten Arzthelfern wissen, wie wichtig gesunde Haut, Haare und Nägel sind, und sind stolz darauf, in Nordtexas qualitativ hochwertige dermatologische Versorgung anzubieten.", "practiceBio": "- Vision: Unsere Patienten und Mitarbeiter sind begeisterte Fans, die ihre Erfahrungen hier gerne mit anderen teilen.\n\n- Mission: Wir bieten hervorragende, mitfühlende medizinische, chirurgische und kosmetische dermatologische Versorgung in einer pflegenden Umgebung.\n\n- Grundwerte: Unsere Grundwerte unterstützen unsere Vision, Mission und prägen unsere Kultur. Sie sind die Essenz unserer Identität und die Regeln, nach denen wir leben. Sie leiten uns bei jeder einzelnen Entscheidung, die wir treffen, und jeder Handlung, die wir mit uns selbst, mit anderen und mit unserer Organisation unternehmen. MITFÜHLEN, GELERNT, EHRLICH, LOYALITÄT, EINFALLSREICH", "aboutMd": "Dr. Jonathan D. Richey bietet hochmoderne medizinische, chirurgische und kosmetische Behandlungen für Haut, Haare, Nägel und Venen an. Seine Abschlüsse in Medizin und Gesundheitsverwaltung zeigen sein außergewöhnliches Engagement für die neuesten wissenschaftlichen Erkenntnisse und die Bereitstellung von Gesundheitsfürsorge. \n\nDr. Richey ist ein starker Befürworter der wissenschaftlich bestimmten Hauttypisierung. Er ist auch ein Befürworter des Einsatzes von Technologie, um Anbietern bei der Bereitstellung von Gesundheitsfürsorge zu helfen und seine Patienten und die Gemeinschaft richtig aufzuklären. Er ist besonders dankbar für die vielen Wissenschaftler und Unternehmen, die daran arbeiten, personalisierte Produkte für außergewöhnliche Haut und allgemeine Gesundheit zu entwickeln und herzustellen.\n\nEr verbringt gerne Zeit mit seiner Frau und seinen beiden Töchtern sowie mit Gartenarbeit und Musik. Er spricht fließend Spanisch.", "aboutSTS": "Influencern, Freunden, Moden oder Trends zu folgen, ist keine gute Methode, um Ihre Haut zu pflegen. Ihr Hauttyp verdient eine erfolgreiche, wissenschaftlich festgelegte Pflege für die gesamte Lebensdauer Ihrer Haut. Diese finden Sie bei Skin Type Solutions!\n\n-Dr. Jonathan D. Richey, DO, MHA" }, { "affiliateCode": "BSWD116", "locationType": "Sekundär", "Kontoname": "Jonathan Richey, DO, MHA", "Praxisname": "Baylor Scott & White Dermatologie-Spezialisten", "Straße": "821 N Coleman St, #100", "Stadt": "Gedeihen", "Staat": "TX", "zip": 75078, "Telefon": "(469) 800-5325", "Website": "dermmckinney.com", "bookingLink": "https://www.bswhealth.com/locations/dermatology-specialists", "E-Mail": "jonathan.richey@gmail.com", "practicelabel": "Prosper, TX", "skinType": "", "mdName": "Jonathan Richey, DO, MHA", "mdTitle": "Von der STS anerkannter Arzt", "practiceDesc": "", "practiceBio": "", "aboutMd": "", "überSTS": "" } ]