GOLD
Commonly Found In
Overview
GOLD is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for COLORANT. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: CI 77480, Gold leaf, Colloidal Gold, Aurum
Key Benefits
Metallic gold is biologically inert and does not penetrate the skin in its standard form. Studies have not established active skin benefits from gold in cosmetics beyond its visual luxury appearance. Some studies on colloidal gold nanoparticles suggest possible anti-inflammatory properties, but evidence remains limited.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Noble metal; chemically inert on skin surface; no comedogenic potential.
Source: CIR Safety Assessment β Gold and Gold Compounds (2015)
Irritancy Rating
Non-irritating; extremely rare contact allergy (gold sodium thiosulfate positive patch tests reported at <1% frequency).
Source: CIR Safety Assessment β Gold and Gold Compounds (2015)
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.001β1%
Optimal
0.01β0.1%
Gold leaf or flakes used at very low concentrations for visual effect; colloidal gold used at trace levels.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Contact allergy to gold is rare but documented (gold is a recognized contact allergen in jewelry). Metallic gold at standard cosmetic use levels is generally considered non-reactive. Do not confuse with ionic gold compounds or gold salts.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (IV/133) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU CosIng allows gold as a colorant (CI 77480). The UK post-Brexit restriction (IV/133) affects specific forms. US FDA approves gold as a color additive in cosmetics. Japan permits use.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in UK but allowed in EU, USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 193 ingredients in the COLORANT category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Elemental gold (Au, atomic number 79), naturally occurring precious metal mined from gold deposits worldwide. Cosmetic gold is typically 24K (99.9% pure) or colloidal gold nanoparticles.
π How It's Made
Cosmetic gold is produced as thin gold leaf (beaten to 0.1-0.2 micrometers), gold flakes, or colloidal gold nanoparticles (5-100 nm) synthesized by chemical reduction of gold salts.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used mainly as a luxury ingredient in premium skincare and makeup products for its visual appeal. Found in facial masks, serums, and eye patches. While marketed for anti-aging benefits, scientific evidence for these claims is limited β gold is mostly used for its glamorous appearance.
π¬ Other Applications
Electronics (conductors, connectors), jewelry, dentistry (crowns, bridges), pharmaceutical gold salts for rheumatoid arthritis, food decoration (E175), and as a monetary standard.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Gold has been used in cosmetics since ancient Egypt - Cleopatra reportedly slept in a gold face mask nightly
- β’ Cosmetic gold provides no proven skin benefits beyond visual luxury - it's biologically inert and doesn't penetrate skin
- β’ One gram of gold can be beaten into a sheet covering 1 square meter, making gold leaf extremely thin and lightweight for cosmetics
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β CI 77480
- β’ FDA color additive regulations
- β’ Contact dermatitis studies on gold allergy
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
ZINC STEARATE
ALUMINUM SILICATE
ALUMINUM STEARATE
BARIUM SULFATE
CALCIUM STEARATE
CATALASE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GOLD used for in cosmetics?
GOLD is primarily used for colorant in cosmetic products. It also serves as skin conditioning - miscellaneous, slip modifier. The ingredient is commonly found in makeup products, hair dyes, and colored cosmetics.
Which countries regulate GOLD?
GOLD is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to GOLD?
Due to regulatory restrictions on GOLD, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For colorant, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Where can I find official regulation information about GOLD?
Official information about GOLD regulations can be found on government websites: EU CosIng database, US FDA Cosmetics page, Japan MHLW cosmetics standards, UK Government cosmetics guidance, and Korea MFDS. Always verify regulatory status with these official sources before making formulation decisions.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.