Estradiol gel for facial ageing?

Skin ageing is a major concern for many women, particularly at the menopause. The menopause and perimenopause bring about significant hormonal changes that can affect the appearance and health of the skin. Among the promising solutions,estradiol gel stands out for its beneficial effects on the skin. Let’s take a look at the results of a recent clinical study highlighting the effectiveness of this innovative treatment.

Does the menopause affect the skin?

The menopause is a period of major transformation in a woman’s life, marked by the end of menstrual cycles and a significant drop in female hormone levels, particularly oestrogen. This hormonal decline has a direct impact on the health andappearance of the skin.

When oestrogen levels fall, a number of skin changes can occur:

• Skin dryness: Oestrogen is essential for maintaining the skin’s natural moisture. Their reduction reduces the skin’s ability to retain water, resulting in drier skin and sometimes feelings of tightness or discomfort.
• Loss of elasticity: Oestrogen also contributes to the production of collagen and elastin, two proteins crucial to the skin’s firmness andelasticity. With a drop in oestrogen, the skin becomes less elastic, which can lead to sagging and loss of tone.
• Appearance of wrinkles: The combination of skin dryness and loss of collagen accelerates the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. Skin becomes thinner and more fragile, accentuating the visible signs of ageing.
• Changes in texture: Hormonal changes can also affect skin texture, sometimes making it feel rougher or more irregular.
• Alteration of the skin barrier: The skin’s ability to protect itself against external aggressors can also be compromised, making it more vulnerable to irritation and infection.

The role of oestrogen for the skin

Oestrogens, andestradiol in particular, play a crucial role in maintaining the health and beauty of the skin. Their beneficial action on the skin is multiple and well-documented.

Firstly, oestrogens stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen is an essential structural protein that gives the skin its firmness and elasticity. Increased collagen production means firmer skin that is less prone to fine lines and wrinkles. Elastin, on the other hand, allows the skin to regain its shape after being stretched or compressed, contributing to its suppleness and resilience.

Secondly, oestrogens promote water retention in the skin. They act on glycosaminoglycans, molecules capable of retaining large quantities of water, helping to keep the skin optimally hydrated. Well-hydrated skin is not only softer and smoother, it also looks younger and more radiant. Hydration helps to fill in fine lines and wrinkles, improving the skin’s overall appearance.

Finally, oestrogen has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. These free radicals, often generated by exposure to UV rays and pollution, can accelerate skin ageing by damaging skin cells. By neutralising these free radicals, oestrogens help to prevent premature skin ageing.

Is estradiol gel effective against wrinkles?

A recent clinical study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of a topical gel containing 0.01%estradiol on the signs of ageing on the face. The study involved 90 post-menopausal women aged between 50 and 60 who showed signs of photoageing. The participants were divided into three groups: a group using the estradiol gel, a group using a gel containing 0.3%estriol, and a placebo group.

The results of this study are particularly promising, demonstrating the effectiveness of estradiol gel in treating the signs of skin ageing.

Improved hydration

Participants usingestradiol gel experienced a significant increase in skin hydration. After just 12 weeks of daily application, skin became visibly softer and better hydrated, giving a healthier, more radiant appearance.

Reduced wrinkles and improved firmness

Estradiol gel also demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing wrinkles andimproving skinfirmness. Women taking part in the study reported smoother, firmer skin, with a marked reduction in wrinkles and fine lines. These results underline the potential of estradiol gel to strengthen skin structure and reduce the visible signs of ageing.

Tolerance and safety

In terms of tolerance and safety, estradiol gel proved to be very well tolerated by the participants. No significant side effects were observed throughout the study. In addition, blood tests showed that estradiol levels remained stable, indicating minimal systemic absorption and confirming the safety of this treatment.

Source:

1. A Clinical Study to Assess the Facial Anti-Aging Efficacy of Topical Estriol and Estradiol June 30, 2024