Science
Mechanism of Action
Functioning primarily as a humectant, this ingredient attracts and binds large quantities of water—up to 1,000 times its mass—to hydrate the stratum corneum and epidermis, promoting skin softness, elasticity, and structural integrity. Its nano-sized structure is hypothesized to enhance penetration into deeper epidermal regions, improving moisturization and turgor. Gold nanoparticles, generally, are suggested to offer anti-aging, moisturizing, regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, potentially stimulating cell regeneration, repairing damage, enhancing firmness and elasticity, boosting collagen production, and vitalizing skin metabolism. However, the unique benefits of the gold-HA complex via the thioethylamino linkage beyond these general attributes are not thoroughly detailed in scientific literature.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
For the hyaluronic acid component, optimal stability and water-binding properties are maintained within a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0; deviations can lead to molecular instability and property loss. Hyaluronic acid is also vulnerable to oxidative degradation. The Gold Thioethylamino Hyaluronic Acid (nano) itself is reported to have a solubility of less than 0.01 mg/L, classifying it as practically insoluble. While certain commercial preparations suggest flexibility in oily and anhydrous systems, explicit solubility data for this specific complex in oil is not available.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) concluded in June 2021 that a safety assessment for Gold Thioethylamino Hyaluronic Acid (nano) was not possible due to a lack of essential information and full study reports. The SCCS voiced significant concerns regarding the potential for systemic uptake of gold nanoparticles, their accumulation in organs such (e.g., liver, spleen), and potential mutagenic/genotoxic effects. Consequently, Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/858, published in March 2024, has banned the use of 'Gold Thioethylamino Hyaluronic Acid (nano)' in cosmetic products within the European Union. This ban takes effect on February 1, 2025, with all products containing this ingredient to be withdrawn from the EU market by November 1, 2025.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Given critical safety concerns regarding systemic uptake, organ accumulation, and potential genotoxicity, compounded by insufficient safety data and an impending EU ban, Gold Thioethylamino Hyaluronic Acid is strictly not recommended for use in cosmetic formulations.
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