Midlife Solutions with Karen Martel

 Estriol & Estradiol: Nature’s Collagen Boosters

• What they do: Both bind to skin estrogen receptors on keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Studies have found that using topical estriol (0.3%) or estradiol (0.01%) creams improved skin firmness, elasticity, thickness, reduced wrinkles, and minimized pore size over several months. Skin Deep Look at Hormones

• How fast they work: Clinical improvement begins around 7–11 weeks for estriol and 9–13 weeks for estradiol; wrinkle depth reduction appears later (~16–19 weeks for both). vitalhealthpharmacist.com

• Bottom line: Targeted topical estrogens can meaningfully reverse skin aging signs in peri/postmenopausal skin—firming, thickening, hydrating, and smoothing.

Progesterone Cream: The Sidekick for Skin Firmness

• Skin effects: In a randomized, controlled trial with 2% topical progesterone cream in peri‑ and post-menopausal women, results showed a ~23.6% increase in skin firmness, wrinkle count reduction (~29% vs ~16%) and wrinkle depth reduction (~9.7% vs ~7.3%). Skin hydration and surface lipids didn’t change significantly. Effects and side effects of 2%-progesterone cream on the skin of peri- and postmenopausal women

• Mechanism: Progesterone receptors are present in skin cells and fibroblasts. Topically applied progesterone also may inhibit 5α‑reductase locally (not systemically), potentially slowing local DHT-related aging or hair follicle changes. Pharmacodynamics of progesterone

• Bottom line: Progesterone cream offers real improvements in elasticity and wrinkle reduction, particularly when paired with estrogen—without significantly altering hydration or oil levels.

Testosterone (Topical): Mixed Blessings for Mature Skin

• Benefits: According to expert commentary, testosterone cream can improve skin tightening, elasticity, and even thickness (typically when used in combination with estrogens). HRT for anti-aging: The hormones and the benefits

• Risks: In people with female anatomy, topical testosterone may lead to unwanted hair growth, acne, and skin irritation (itching, rash). 7 Unwanted Topical Testosterone Side Effects

• Bottom line: It offers structural support for aging skin but comes with trade-offs—particularly androgenic side effects. Use with caution and medical guidance.

Melatonin: The Underappreciated Antioxidant Fix

• What it does: Topical melatonin penetrates the skin and reduces markers of oxidative stress and photo-damage. It has been used in formulations to protect against UV exposure, reduce erythema, and improve hydration and tonicity. Assessing the Potential Role for Topical Melatonin in an Antiaging Skin Regimen

• Clinical data: One study combining topical + oral melatonin in women aged 55–69 showed moisturization up 18–24% and wrinkle depth reduction by nearly 9–18% over 84 days. Lipidomic and Instrumental Evaluation of a Melatonin-Based In & Out Strategy Versus Topical Treatment in Skin Aging

• Bottom line: While the research isn’t massive, melatonin appears safe and may act as a multitasking antioxidant-hydrator—especially helpful in antioxidant-depleted menopausal skin.

Using topical estriol and estradiol creams can deliver visible anti-aging benefits in menopausal skin by boosting collagen and hydration. Progesterone lotion is a solid addition for firming and elasticity. Testosterone can help, but tread carefully due to androgenic side effects. And topical melatonin—while emerging—is a gentle antioxidant hero, especially paired with hydration.

Get 10% off our topical Hormone skin care line with coupon code customer10. 

References

• American Journal of Clinical Dermatology; British Journal of Dermatology studies on topical progesterone effects. Effects and side effects of 2%-progesterone cream on the skin of peri- and postmenopausal women

• Clinical review on topical estrogens (estriol, estradiol): skin firmness, hydration, elasticity improvements.

• Commentary on testosterone cream benefits and risks. Dermatology Times

• Clinical/Review data on topical melatonin: antioxidant, photoprotection, hydration.Lipidomic and Instrumental Evaluation of a Melatonin-Base...