A cosmetic method of treating human skin by delivering an estrogenic component to said skin, the method comprising applying to the skin a composition containing: (i) at least 5 .mu.g/g of an estrogenic component selected from the group consisting of substances represented by the following formula 1 in which formula R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3, R.sub.4 independently are a hydrogen atom, a hydroxyl group or an alkoxy group with 1-5 carbon atoms; each of R.sub.5, R.sub.6, R.sub.7 is a hydroxyl group; no more than 3 of R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3, R.sub.4 are hydrogen atoms; precursors capable of liberating a substance according to the aforementioned formula when used in the present method; and mixtures of one or more of the aforementioned substances and/or precursors; and (ii) a cosmetically acceptable vehicle. Other aspects of the invention relate to therapeutic methods of treating or preventing vaginal dryness or acne and a therapeutic method of promoting wound healing. Another aspect relates to a skin care composition comprising the aforementioned estrogenic component and a cosmetically acceptable vehicle.