Now more than ever we are fortunate to have countless options for topical anti-aging purposes in the skin. In some of our past blogs, we have looked at topical antioxidants, retinoids, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. In this article, we will look at one of the newer treatments receiving social media attention, topical estrogen.
What is Topical Estrogen?
Simply put, topical estrogen is a cream that contains estrogen, which is a hormone. Topical estrogen formulations such as topical estradiol (Estrace) are applied to treat symptoms of menopause such as vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. So why is this medication seeing the spotlight in social media for skin anti-aging?
In our blog, https://thedermnp.com/what-happens-to-our-skin-as-it-ages/
we discussed the signs of skin aging by decades. We know that skin aging begins in our twenties, and continues to escalate, especially after menopause. Some of the changes in our skin that per-menopause and menopause can bring include increased dryness, fine lines, and loss of elasticity. This is a result of declining estrogen levels within the body. We have many options for topical anti-aging, so why would one want to consider topical estrogen?
Here are the potential benefits:
- Topical estrogen has been shown to increase collagen production in the skin, notably after six months of use.
- It can increase levels of hyaluronic acid within the skin.
- It may help to restore skin elasticity and thickness as well as improving overall texture.
- Supports wound healing and repair.
- May brighten the complexion and improve skin smoothness.
- Overall thought to improve fine lines and wrinkles.
- Less irritating than topical retinoids.
Are There Side Effects?
Anything that is applied to the skin has the potential to cause side effects. Topical estrogen has the potential to cause several side effects including:
- Facial telangiectasias (superficial blood vessels)
- Hormonal acne breakouts
- Increased facial hair growth
- Nausea, vomiting, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, weight changes
- Dyschromia (pigment changes within the skin)
- Skin irritation
What Are the Considerations for Topical Estrogen?
Topical estrogens have the potential for systemic absorption into the body. Although this may be on a smaller scale, any amount of absorption should be considered carefully, especially if you have a history of hormone sensitive conditions such as PCOS, uterine or ovarian cancer, and breast cancer as use of a topical estrogen may theoretically cause an increased risk.
As with any form of hormonal supplementation, one should consider whether treatment is appropriate. We do not recommend that prescription topical estrogens that are formulated for menopause be applied to the face. At this time, we feel that more research should be conducted to determine the efficacy and safety of topical estrogen for anti-aging.
Instead, if you are interested in choosing this anti-aging option, seek out a low-dose estriol prescription, or an over-the-counter phytoestrogen cream which contains a plant-derived estrogen-like compound. Topical options like this may be beneficial of other options, like tretinoin, are not tolerated well.
A safer option would be topical Methyl Estradiolpropanoate (MEP) that is a non-hormonal option to stimulate estrogen receptors in the skin without impacting hormone levels in the body.
Are There Alternatives?
Yes! A wonderful alternative to topical estrogen is good old-fashioned prescription tretinoin, which is a topical retinoid. Topical retinoids have been around for decades and have proven superior efficacy for antiaging. Topical retinoids offer multiple benefits:
- Increased collagen production over time.
- Increase in cell turnover of the skin which smooths skin texture.
- Softens fine lines and wrinkles.
- Brightens skin tone and reduces sallowness.
- Helps to lessen hyperpigmentation.
- Improves skin firmness and elasticity.
As with any anti-aging regimen, sunscreen use should be an integral part of your regimen. We recommend applying sunscreen daily in the morning and at least every two hours when in the sun.
Prescription Strength Products
When used under the care of a dermatology provider, prescription strength retinoid products like tretinoin are highly effective in anti-aging skin care routines. We know that dermatological care is not always accessible because of lack of proximity to a dermatology office, care may not be covered by insurance or there is a high co-pay, or because your schedule makes an in-person appointment difficult. Our practice, The Derm NP, provides exceptional care that circumvents all those obstacles.
The Derm NP provides telehealth dermatology consultations. Our visits are $37 per visit because we want to make exceptional care accessible and affordable.
Contact us at (630) 697-2433 or www.thedermnp.com today to schedule an appointment for tretinoin or other anti-aging skin care products. We are here to help you with your unique skin care or anti-aging needs.
