Gold

Metallic element whose skin care benefits remain unproven

Potential source of skin irritation

Also goes by the INCI Name CI 77480 as a colorant

Although related to colloidal gold, the two differ greatly in their cosmetic functions

The incorporation of gold into skin care formulations is often accompanied by extravagant marketing claims, eyebrow-raising prices and tales rooted in ancient history, tracing back to the era of Cleopatra. Nevertheless, empirical research has yet to validate gold as a genuinely efficacious skin care ingredient. On the contrary, patch test studies have demonstrated a propensity for gold to potentially sensitize the skin.

The US FDA does not designate gold as an approved colorant. Within the domain of the European Union (EU), it is allowed as a colorant under the INCI Name CI 77480.

Another variant of gold used within skin care is colloidal gold, wherein the gold particles are nanosized (typically ranging from 1 to 15 nanometers), ensuring even dispersion throughout a solution. In this form, it can help enhance the delivery/efficacy of other key ingredients, while offering preservative properties. Delve into the entry for colloidal gold for more information.

Gold has yet to undergo comprehensive evaluation by the Cosmetics Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, leaving us unable to definitively comment on its safety. Use levels of gold in cosmetics have not been firmly established.

See: Colloidal Gold