INCI: Glycine Soja Extract
Phytoestrogens from soy: genistein, daidzein, glycitein. Structurally resemble estradiol and weakly bind skin estrogen receptors. Marketing positioning – anti-age for menopausal skin where estrogen decline is linked to loss of firmness and density. Topical evidence base is limited, but safety profile is favourable.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Small clinical studies showed improved skin density and elasticity in postmenopausal women with daily use of 2-4%. Effects are modest and not comparable to prescription topical estrogens. No meta-analyses in dermatology journals.
Soy Isoflavones (INCI Glycine Soja Extract) are a group of soy phytoestrogens: genistein, daidzein, glycitein. Structurally resemble estradiol and weakly bind skin estrogen receptors (ERβ). Mechanism. Activate ERβ in keratinocytes and fibroblasts, partially mimicking an estrogenic signal. In menopausal women this links to maintenance of collagen and elastin density and slower skin thinning. Isoflavones also act as antioxidants. Where applied. Anti-aging serums and creams (extract 0.5-3%), mature-skin products, 'menopausal skin' lines. In Spain – Sesderma Reti Age, Endocare Cellage, Mesoestetic. Evidence base. Accorsi-Neto 2009 in 30 postmenopausal women showed epidermal collagen and elastin gains over 6 months of 4% soy isoflavones. Other RCTs (Patriarca 2007) confirm hydration and texture improvement. Effect is modest, below retinol. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at cosmetic concentrations. Patients with confirmed soy allergy may show contact reactions. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. Topical systemic absorption is minimal, but because of phytoestrogen hormonal activity manufacturers label beauty products with isoflavones as 'not for pregnancy'. For gestational melasma prefer niacinamide, azelaic acid, adenosine. Suitable for. Mature postmenopausal skin, loss of density and firmness, thinning skin on hands and neck. Not for younger patients – effect is weaker than niacinamide and peptides.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
CautionSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Soy Isoflavones should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Soy Isoflavones suits: normal, dry, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Phytoestrogens from soy: genistein, daidzein, glycitein.
The INCI name is Glycine Soja Extract. It may also appear as: Soy Isoflavones, Genistein, Daidzein.
Published: · updated:
Use with caution