What Is Ethinyl estradiol?

Learn about the skin conditioning characteristics of Ethinyl estradiol and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Ethinyl estradiol? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Ethinyl estradiol?

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Ethinyl estradiol is a man-made substance that looks like a fine white powder, and is sometimes used in cosmetics to condition the skin. It's a type of synthetic steroid that can be taken as a birth control pill along with another hormone called progestogen. When taken orally, it acts like estrogen in the body and can prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation. It's important to note that ethinyl estradiol is also considered a xenoestrogen, which means it mimics the effects of estrogen in the body even though it's not natural.

What is the purpose of Ethinyl estradiol in personal care products? It is used for its skin conditioning characteristics. Ethinyl estradiol moisturizes and strengthens skin.

Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Ethinyl estradiol, 17alpha-Ethinylestradiol, EE, EE2, "Estra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3,17-diol, 17-ethynyl-, (17beta)-", 17alpha-19-Norpregna-1,3,5(10)-trien-20-yne-3,17-diol, and "19-​Norpregna-​1,​3,​5(10)​-​trien-​20-​yne-​3,​17-​diol, (17α)​-".

What Are Skin Conditioning Ingredients?

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Ethinyl estradiol has skin conditioning characteristics.

Skin conditioning ingredients improve the texture, feel, and overall appearance of the skin, helping to avoid harmful effects from external factors. Skin conditioning ingredients moisturize the skin and strengthen its natural barrier function to help protect it from damage caused by harsh weather and sunlight. Some skin conditioning ingredients are anti-inflammatory and can help reduce redness and irritated skin.

Safety

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Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.