What is Gold Thioctate?
Gold Thioctate, also known as Gold Thioctic Acid, is a unique cosmetic ingredient derived from the reaction of Thioctic Acid with Colloidal Gold. Thioctic Acid, commonly known as Alpha Lipoic Acid, is a powerful antioxidant, while Colloidal Gold is a suspension of fine gold particles in a liquid. The chemical composition of Gold Thioctate is such that it combines the antioxidant properties of Thioctic Acid with the skin-protecting benefits of Colloidal Gold.
The use of gold in skincare has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations like Egypt and Rome, where it was believed to have healing and anti-aging properties. However, the combination of gold with Thioctic Acid to create Gold Thioctate is a relatively recent development in the world of cosmetics. This innovative ingredient was created to harness the benefits of both components, providing a potent antioxidant and skin-protecting effect.
Gold Thioctate is produced through a chemical reaction where Thioctic Acid is combined with Colloidal Gold. This process results in a compound that retains the beneficial properties of both components, making it a valuable addition to various skincare products.
While there are other antioxidants and skin-protecting ingredients used in cosmetics, Gold Thioctate stands out due to its unique composition. Unlike other ingredients that only offer antioxidant benefits, Gold Thioctate also provides skin-protecting properties, thanks to the presence of Colloidal Gold. This dual-action makes it a versatile ingredient in skincare formulations.
Typically, Gold Thioctate is used in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant properties help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, while its skin-protecting benefits help to maintain the skin’s health and vitality. As such, products containing Gold Thioctate are often marketed for their anti-aging and skin-enhancing benefits.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Gold Thioctate:
Antioxidant Properties
Gold Thioctate is officially recognized as an antioxidant. In layman’s terms, this means it has the ability to protect your skin cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can harm the cellular structure of your skin, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, Gold Thioctate helps to maintain the health and vitality of your skin, keeping it looking youthful and radiant.
Skin Protecting
Another official function of Gold Thioctate is its skin-protecting properties. This means it acts as a shield for your skin, protecting it from environmental stressors such as pollution, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions. This protective barrier helps to prevent skin damage, dryness, and irritation, keeping your skin healthy and resilient.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Gold Thioctate. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, as consumers, it’s crucial to be aware of the proven benefits and not be misled by unsupported claims made by brands and manufacturers.
Safety Profile
Gold Thioctate is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. However, like any cosmetic ingredient, its safety and suitability largely depend on its concentration and the manner in which it is used.
As an antioxidant and skin-protecting agent, Gold Thioctate is generally considered safe for topical application. However, it’s always recommended to conduct a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there’s no adverse reaction. This is because individual skin types and sensitivities can vary greatly.
- Potential side effects of topical application of Gold Thioctate may include skin irritation or allergic reactions in individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to gold.
- Some individuals may experience a temporary change in skin color due to the gold particles in the ingredient.
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently a lack of data regarding the safety of Gold Thioctate for topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Gold Thioctate are not common, but it’s always recommended to conduct a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there’s no adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
