THE PRETTY LIST

Midas-touched beauty products are currently in abundance. Are they worth their weight?

The beauty realm is in the midst of a gold rush. Gold-infused products are glitzy and shiny. And pricey. Cost per ounce partially explains the inflated price tag – but are there other benefits to be extracted?

The history between gold and beauty dates back to the Ancient

Egyptians and Romans who heralded it as a skin cure-all.

In the modern world a key US study noted positive results when gold leaf was tested on low blood-flow skin ulcers. Another found gold to be beneficial in treating autoimmune diseases and inflammation. Admittedly, there are limited studies assessing the efficacy of gold’s inclusion in skin care. Anecdotally, the precious metal is touted to reduce fine lines and smooth texture.

However, what’s guaranteed is an instant, glorious sheen – thanks to gold’s reflective particles. In the radiance boosting stakes, these products take the gold.

1. Tatcha Gold Spun Camellia Lip Balm, $44. For the softest lips imaginable. 2. Peter Thomas Roth 24k Gold Mask, 50ml, $108. Channel your inner Cleopatra by lathering in gold. 3. Winky Lux 24k Glimmer Balm, $23. What’s not to love about a sparkling lip...