You've probably seen it on TikTok. The gold facial, where 24 carat gold leaf is literally applied to the face and then massaged into the skin. It's probably one of the most lavishly seductive beauty trends of the moment. But is there actually a method to the madness? Does gold actually have benefits for your skin?
Like most trends, this one is cyclical. Using gold in skincare is not a new invention. In ancient Egypt, gold masks where long used as a complexion remedy. It was an apparent favourite of Cleopatra. There's also evidence to show that gold was used in ancient China to treat scarring and skin ulcers. It's now reemerged as a trend in Western society as Western science has shown that gold does actually have some strong skincare benefits. In particular, its ability to increase the absorption of other active ingredients into the deeper layers of the skin.
"The science is encouraging," says Vanessa Gray Lyndon, Founder Vanessa Megan Skincare. As an organic and natural skincare brand, Vanessa Megan Skincare has turned to natural ingredients like gold for its topical benefits.
"There’s also ongoing research into gold nanoparticles helping carry ingredients deeper and calm the skin, with the usual caveat that size, coating and proper cosmeticgrade sourcing really matter," she said.
Below, Gray dives into gold's application in skincare. How is compares to other active ingredients and exactly why it's slowly becoming such a favourite ingredient across cosmetic formulations.
Gold has been used in beauty rituals for centuries. How it first became associated with skincare?
Gold’s beauty story started with symbolism and spectacle—think Cleopatra myths, Edoperiod rituals and European courts using gold foils and balms for glow and “preservation.” It was more ritual than science back then.
Today, it shows up in two main ways: as pure 24k leaf or flakes you press over a serum for instant radiance and a soothing, inert finish, and as colloidal or nanosized gold mixed into serums and creams. The modern take is practical as well as pretty—gold is stable, plays nicely with other actives, and gives that softfocus glow. There’s also ongoing research into gold nanoparticles helping carry ingredients deeper and calm the skin, with the usual caveat that size, coating and proper cosmeticgrade sourcing really matter.
@aylennpark My mom got a 24k GOLD FACIAL!!😱 and she loved it!! #facial #goldfacial #korean #koreanfacial #koreanskincare #glowyskin #fyp #kbeauty #mom ♬ original sound - Aylen Park
What does the scientific evidence currently say about gold’s efficacy in skincare?
The science is encouraging. Smaller clinical and lab studies show antioxidant and calming effects, with promising work on colloidal and nano gold helping deliver other actives. Big, longterm trials for gold alone are still coming, but the everyday wins—instant glow, smoother feel, and supportive benefits alongside vitamin C, peptides and hydrators—are solid.
We added gold into the Vanessa Megan range because we saw consistent results: calmer skin, better makeup laydown, and that immediate radiance. Pure, Europeansourced 24k gold is inert and gentle, so it layers seamlessly. We use it as a smart booster—clean, cosmeticgrade, and designed to elevate your routine without fuss.
What are the primary skin concerns that gold is said to address?
The first and most noticeable benefits of our 25k Gold Leaf Sheets are instant radiance via light reflection, visible calming of redness thanks to its inert nature, and supportive benefits for tone and firmness over time when used within a solid routine. It also helps makeup sit more smoothly after application.
How does gold compare to more traditional actives like vitamin C, retinol, or hyaluronic acid in terms of results?
It’s a supportive co-star rather than a replacement. Vitamin C, retinoids and acids have stronger evidence for pigmentation, collagen and texture; hyaluronic acid is a proven hydrator. Gold adds sensorial appeal, mild antioxidant and calming effects, and immediate glow.
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Are there particular forms of gold that are more effective or safer for topical use?
Pure 24k leaf/flakes are inert and generally well tolerated when layered over serums or oils. Colloidal gold and well engineered nanoparticles can integrate into formulas and may aid delivery, but safety and performance depend on particle size, coating and purity. Always look for cosmetic or food-grade certification; avoid imitation “gold” made from brass alloys.
What makes gold an attractive ingredient for formulators compared to other luxury skincare actives?
It’s stable, nonreactive and instantly signals luxury without added fragrance or colour. It improves spreadability, encourages massage, plays well with mainstream actives (vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides, ceramides) and delivers both theatre and a gentle functional boost.
