A shining regimen: Gold in beauty products

Humanity has a perpetual fascination for gold. As one of the most beautiful metals, gold has become a must as jewelry, decor, or art material. As the uses of gold increased over time, the skincare and cosmetic industries started experimenting with gold as an agent of beautification, recalling the techniques of ancient Egyptian and Chinese civilizations. Gold has been transformed into an active ingredient in beauty products.

Image Source: makeupandbeauty.com

Ancient Egyptian and Chinese queens had integrated gold into their beauty regimens. As gold was regarded as the highest form of metal, it was also thought to be the key to the Elixir of Life and immortality. As such, gold was used by women of influence as the ancient youth serum. They incorporated gold in salves and massaged the metal onto their faces either in the morning or at night. Cleopatra was thought to have slept every night wearing a gold mask to maintain the suppleness of her skin and the glow of her beauty.

Image Source: made-in-china.com

Pure gold is non-toxic and is often used as a decorative agent in food and drink even today. It is considered safe on the skin. Modern cosmetic products are based on this principle, as well on the long-standing idea that the metal has anti-aging and purifying properties. And much like its unchanging value, gold has never gone from the royal boudoirs to the hands of the middle class and the masses. It is as inaccessible for its price today as before.

Image Source: beautyheaven.com.au

Richard Fifer heads Petaquilla, one of the largest producers of gold in Panama. Visit this blog for news and updates about the gold industry.