Gold
INCI: Colloidal Gold
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Colloidal Gold
Precious metal and element
EWG Safety Score
Gold products at Skintique
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What Is Gold?
Gold is a precious yellow metal and a chemical element with the symbol Au. It is a noble metal, meaning it is resistant to corrosion or oxidation when exposed to water or air. Gold's history as a prized component of jewelry and other adornments goes back to antiquity. Gold has also been used in skin care preparations for nearly as long, dating back to the era of Cleopatra at least. In many cases it was included in formulations for the luxury component, though claims about its healing properties were also abundant.
Modern science has explored claims that gold has anti-aging, antibacterial, and soothing properties. While there are some studies indicating this could be the case, there isn't enough peer-reviewed research yet that gives these claims credibility – though research is ever-changing, and this definition will be updated as new research becomes available. Where gold truly shines (pun intended) in cosmetics is in its previously mentioned resistance to oxidation. Unfortunately, many of the beneficial antioxidants skin needs to fight off environmental stressors to remain youthful are extremely vulnerable to light and air exposure. Gold stabilizes these antioxidants (particularly vitamin C), so they retain their potency longer, meaning you get its full benefit.
In cosmetics, gold can also be a carrier, meaning it can help deliver certain ingredients to specific areas of skin, enhancing the ingredient's efficacy. The typical use level of gold in cosmetics range from 0.0001% to 0.05% in skin care. For makeup, gold flakes may be used in trace amounts such as 0.01%. Note: gold is a contact allergen for some people. While most cosmetics containing gold are formulated to be non-irritating, if you know you have a gold allergy, it is best to patch test any product containing gold to see how your skin will respond.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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PubChem, Website, Accessed December 2025 PubChem, 2025
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UL Prospector, Website, Accessed December 2025 UL Prospector, 2025
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Indian Journal of Applied & Pure Biology, September 2025, pages 1,643-1,648 Indian Journal of Applied & Pure Biology, 2025
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Journal of Polish Hyperbaric Research, March 2024, pages 57-66 Journal of Polish Hyperbaric Research, 2024
From the Clinic
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These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Gold is the common form.
Related Ingredients
Colloidal Gold
Gold nanoparticles with potential antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties
Dihydroxyacetone
DHA | Reacts with amino acids found in the top layers of skin to create a shade of brown
Erythrulose
Substance chemically similar to the self-tanning agent dihydroxyacetone.
Gardenia Jasminoides Fruit Extract
A plant extract with traditional use and emerging research into skin-protective properties
Iron Oxides
Cosmetic pigments that originate from natural minerals Used to tint sunscreens and makeup
Lactoflavin
A B vitamin form used primarily as a colourant in hair and cosmetic products
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