Gold nanoparticles, also known as ‘gold bhasma’, used in medicines and beauty products not only protect the skin from external infestations but are also capable of arresting the effects of aging with declared beneficial anti-aging, hydrating, restorative, and regenerative properties, the researchers from the Paris University in France said in a study.

Demand for such beauty products is already on the increase across the world as in India.

In a significant validation of ancient Indian Ayurvedic practices regarding the use of gold nanoparticles, also known as ‘gold bhasma’ in skincare, European researchers have affirmed the efficacy of these elements in combating aging.

The study ‘Assessment of antioxidant and dermoprotective activities of gold nanoparticles as safe cosmetic ingredient’ published in the science journal Elsevier said that solar ultraviolet rays, pollution, and cigarette smoke harm the skin cells. The pollutants damage the epidermal and fibroblast cells of the skin leading to dryness, infection, and inflammation, while beauty products enriched with gold nanoparticles have efficiency to protect these cells from degradation.

Dr. Sanchit Sharma, Director of Aimil-Ayouthveda, agreed that products containing gold nanoparticles are being increasingly adopted by the younger generation in India. Recently, in collaboration with Indian researchers, AIMIL has prepared a sparkling gold face wash by mixing 24-carat gold nanoparticles with Kashmiri saffron, which fortifies its effects.

This special formulation, by using the synergistic benefits of these natural ingredients including gold nanoparticles, Kashmiri saffron, floral distillates, and juices of fruits known for their high antioxidant contents , works to keep the skin youthful and increases collagen production.
European researchers too in the study found that beauty products with gold nanoparticles benefit the epidermal and fibroblast cells of the skin. The damaged cells of the skin begin to heal, and the process of collagen production accelerates. Thus increases the elasticity of the skin, preventing wrinkles & fine lines, they said.

In fact, say the researchers, gold nanoparticles do not have any side-effects as “these are not – toxic, not phototoxic, not genotoxic, non-irritant and non-sensitizing according to OECD guidelines” even as these slow down the skin cell degradation, simultaneously promoting their regeneration. In a nut-shell, the study underscores the potential of gold nanoparticles in skincare formulations and highlights their role in maintaining youthful, healthy-looking skin.