Estrogen creams, long used as hormone replacement therapy to ease menopause symptoms, are now gaining attention in the skincare world. Marketed as a solution for aging skin, these creams are being promoted on platforms like TikTok for their potential to reduce wrinkles, boost moisture, and enhance collagen production.
In a viral TikTok video with over 100,000 views, influencer Chalene Johnson shared her experience with estrogen cream, claiming it helped her achieve more youthful-looking skin. “If you’re trying to make your skin look more youthful, get yourself some estrogen cream,” she advised.
While these glowing reviews might make estrogen creams seem like a miracle solution for aging skin, experts caution that the evidence is still limited. “Long-term clinical trials on safety and efficacy are scarce,” said Dr. Kristina Collins, a board-certified dermatologist at Austin Skin. “Most research focuses on prescription estrogen, not over-the-counter options.”
Here’s what we know about estrogen creams and whether they’re worth trying.
What Are Estrogen Skincare Creams
There are two main types of estrogen creams: those designed for vaginal use and newer formulations aimed at anti-aging. Vaginal creams, typically prescribed for menopause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness, contain estradiol, a potent form of estrogen. Anti-aging creams, on the other hand, often use weaker concentrations of estrogen or plant-based compounds like soy or grape extracts to target skin aging.
“These creams aim to restore some of estrogen’s benefits, such as boosting collagen, improving hydration, and enhancing elasticity,” explained Dr. Collins. However, unlike prescription vaginal creams, anti-aging versions are less concentrated and designed primarily for topical skin effects.
Who Should Use Estrogen Creams
Estrogen creams are mostly marketed to perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, as they experience significant hormone-related skin changes. “As estrogen levels drop, skin becomes drier, loses elasticity, and produces less collagen,” said Dr. Marianna Blyumin-Karasik, a board-certified dermatologist.
While replacing lost estrogen may help, experts warn against potential side effects. “Even topical estrogen can cause hormonal changes, like breast tenderness,” said Dr. Collins. She also advises against using these creams if you have a history of hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast or uterine cancer, or blood clotting disorders.
Do Estrogen Creams Work for Anti-Aging
While vaginal estrogen creams are well-established for treating menopause-related issues, the effectiveness of anti-aging estrogen creams is less clear. “These products are poorly regulated and vary widely in potency,” said Dr. Collins.
Some studies suggest potential benefits. A 2001 study found that estrogen increased hyaluronic acid in the skin, improving hydration. Another study in 2003 showed that estradiol cream outperformed glycolic acid in thickening the skin’s outer layer. More recently, a 2018 study found that estrogen-deficient women using estrogen-based skincare experienced less dryness and dullness.
Despite these findings, experts say more research is needed. “Early studies are promising, but we need more evidence,” said Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist. For now, he recommends sticking to proven anti-aging ingredients like retinols, vitamin C, and sunscreen.
Should You Try Estrogen Creams
If you’re considering estrogen creams, look for third-party tested products and consult your doctor first. While they may offer some benefits, they’re not a guaranteed fix for aging skin. As Dr. Blyumin-Karasik put it, “The results are moderate and optimistic, but there are safer, more proven options available.”
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