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Topical estrogen for the face

Topical Estrogen for the Face: Estriol Cream

Geschrieben von: Dr. Leslie Baumann

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Lesezeit 10 min

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.

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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?

Why Use an Estrogen Face Cream?

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

  1. Estrogen deficiency due to loss of ovarian function 
  2. Menopause 
  3. 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.

Estrogen creams during gender affirmation care

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.

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antiaging creams to use instead of estrogen cream

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

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.

Is estrogen safe in skin care

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

How Does Estrogen Affect the Skin?

Estrogen plays a significant role in skin health by:

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

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

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.

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Level up your skin care knowledge with medical advice from dermatologists

Does estrogen affect your face shape?

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:

  1. Baumann L. Antiaging Ingredients in Ch. 37 of Baumann's Cosmetic Dermatology Ed 3. (McGraw Hill 2022)
  2. Baumann, L. Ch. Cosmeceuticals and Cosmetic Ingredients (McGraw Hill 2015)
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. Baumann, L. (2005). A dermatologist’s opinion on hormone therapy and skin aging. Fertility and Sterility84(2), 289-290.
  6. 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 dermatology5(2), 85-90.
  7. Schmidt, J. B., Binder, M., Demschik, G., Bieglmayer, C., & Reiner, A. (1996). Treatment of skin aging with topical estrogens. International journal of dermatology35(9), 669-674.
  8. Shah, M. G., & Maibach, H. I. (2001). Estrogen and skin: an overview. American journal of clinical dermatology2, 143-150.
  9. 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: JDD21(11), 1185-1190.
  10. Cohen, J. L. (2019). Evaluation of efficacy of a skin care regimen containing methyl estradiolpropanoate (MEP) for treating estrogen deficient skin. J. Drugs Dermatol18, 1226-1230.
  11. 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 Trials9(6).
  12. 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: JDD17(11), 1186-1189.
  13. 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.