What are the side effects of estriol face cream?

The most likely are skin reactions where you apply it: redness, dryness, itching or irritation, as with any new nightly cream. In the 1996 study, prolactin rose; no other hormonal side effects were noted. Stop and contact the provider if irritation doesn't settle.

Can estriol face cream cause cancer?

There is no study showing that estriol face cream causes cancer, but estriol is an estrogen, and long-term data on facial use are limited. That is why anyone with a history of hormone-sensitive cancer, such as ER-positive breast or endometrial cancer, needs a provider review before using it.

Is estriol safer than estradiol for the face?

Estriol is the weakest of the three natural estrogens, which is one reason it is the usual choice for face creams. Both were studied on the face in 1996 with similar skin results. Weaker does not mean risk-free, so the same screening applies.

A small amount of white face cream in the palm of a hand

Estriol face cream safety

Is estriol face cream safe? Side effects and who should avoid it

Quick answer: For most women it is well tolerated. In the main study of 0.3% estriol cream used on the face for six months, no systemic hormonal side effects were noted, and prolactin was the only hormone that rose. It is not for pregnancy or breastfeeding, and a history of hormone-sensitive cancer needs a provider review first.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Snipes, MD and Kim Callender, NP, FNP-BC. Last reviewed September 29, 2026.

Side effects

What side effects to expect

On your skin

Redness, dryness, itching or mild irritation where you apply it, as with any new nightly cream. It usually settles as your skin adjusts. If it doesn't, stop and contact the provider.

In your body

In the six-month study of 0.3% estriol on the face, researchers checked estradiol, FSH and prolactin every month. Only prolactin rose significantly, and no systemic hormonal side effects were noted (Schmidt et al., Int J Dermatol 1996).

Who should avoid it

Who shouldn't use estriol face cream

Do not use
- If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant
- If you are breastfeeding
- If you have a known copper allergy (all our GHK-Cu creams contain copper)
Provider review first
- A history of hormone-sensitive cancer, such as ER-positive breast cancer or endometrial cancer
- You already use hormone therapy: pills, patches, gels or vaginal estrogen
Pick the hormone-free cream
- If estrogen isn't right for you, the Cashmere Cream keeps the GHK-Cu and leaves out the hormone
Cashmere Cream, $45/30gm

The intake screens for all of this, and a licensed provider reviews your answers before anything is prescribed.

Everyday safety

Transfer by touch, HRT and long-term use

Transfer by touch. Estrogen on your fingers or face can pass to someone else through skin contact. Wash your hands after applying it and let it absorb before close contact, especially with children and pets.

If you already take HRT. Estriol is still an estrogen, so tell the provider about any hormone therapy, including vaginal estrogen. The face cream is not a substitute for HRT; it is applied to the face and neck only.

Long-term use. The main study ran for six months. There is less data on years of use, which is one more reason to keep your provider informed and report anything new. For what the research does show, see the estriol face cream guide.

How to get it

Estriol is a prescription, so it starts with a provider

We serve 28 states plus Washington, DC. There is no subscription; you reorder when the jar runs low.

Start with the Biocosmetic Cream

1Complete a short intakeYour history, medications and a pregnancy screen.
2A provider reviews itA licensed provider reviews it for a one-time $39 and prescribes if it fits.
3The pharmacy ships itOptimal Balance Pharmacy, a licensed 503A pharmacy, compounds and ships your jar.

Frequently asked questions

Is estriol face cream safe?: For most women it is well tolerated. In the main study of 0.3 percent estriol cream on the face for six months, no systemic hormonal side effects were noted, and prolactin was the only hormone that rose significantly. It is not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and a history of hormone-sensitive cancer needs provider review first.
What are the side effects of estriol face cream?: The most likely are skin reactions where you apply it: redness, dryness, itching or irritation, as with any new nightly cream. In the 1996 study, prolactin rose; no other hormonal side effects were noted. Stop and contact the provider if irritation doesn't settle.
Can estriol face cream cause cancer?: There is no study showing that estriol face cream causes cancer, but estriol is an estrogen, and long-term data on facial use are limited. That is why anyone with a history of hormone-sensitive cancer, such as ER-positive breast or endometrial cancer, needs a provider review before using it.
Can estriol cream on my face affect my partner or pets?: Estrogen on your hands or skin can transfer by touch. Wash your hands after applying it and let it absorb before close skin contact, especially with children and pets.
Is estriol safer than estradiol for the face?: Estriol is the weakest of the three natural estrogens, which is one reason it is the usual choice for face creams. Both were studied on the face in 1996 with similar skin results. Weaker does not mean risk-free, so the same screening applies.