There is no denying that women have a love affair with gold - why wouldn't we? Gold is valuable for a reason - it not only provides a setting for some of the world's most amazing jewels, it also makes our skin glow and look healthier when we wear it. I am sure everyone has noticed the effect a gold cuff or a pair of long swishy gold earrings has next to the skin? It adds that certain something - and as a result, we can't get enough of that Midas touch!

What you may not realise is that gold is not just good-looking next to the skin - it's good-looking - and good for you - on the skin! Let's take a look at the use in skincare of the most precious of metals...

Recently the addition of 24 carat gold to skincare has become not only desirable but more common. Day spas are using gold in their facials to give an immediate glowing, youthful appearance to the skin - and more and more companies are promoting the use of gold in their products.  How do they add the gold? During manufacture, it is added or dissolved in tiny particles to serums and other skincare systems - which allows for easy absorption into the skin.

Although it can be expensive, it has been proven that through the addition of gold particles to our daily skincare regime,  our skin retains a radiance that comes from an increased sense of moisture and health - this has been compared to the 'glow' of the metal itself. It can also increase collagen production leading to tighter, firmer skin. No wonder it's so precious!

One of the best proponents of the trend towards the jewel in the metallurgist's crown is Royal Cosmetics. Founded in Japan, and with a very strong Singaporean presence, this brand is the creator of 'pure gold cream' - which has now been evolving over twenty years in their quest for perfection, and the CEO's desire to make women look as beautiful as they possibly can be - naturally. With a range that extends from creams through lotions, toners and even gold infused soap, Royal Cosmetics is a - forgive the pun - goldmine of super skin saving options.

(Top image courtesy of Georg Jensen)