Ingredient review
Gold of Pleasure Amino Acids
INCI: Capryloyl Gold of Pleasure Amino Acids
A mild, plant-derived surfactant that cleanses without stripping the skin, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin types.
In plain English
This ingredient is a gentle cleanser made by combining fatty acids from camelina (gold of pleasure) oil with amino acids. It helps remove dirt and oil from your skin and hair without causing irritation or dryness, unlike harsher detergents. Think of it as a kinder alternative to sodium lauryl sulfate.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Gold of Pleasure Amino Acids is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Gold of Pleasure Amino Acids.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Capryloyl gold of pleasure amino acids is a surfactant created by reacting caprylic acid (a fatty acid from coconut or palm oil) with amino acids derived from camelina sativa (gold of pleasure) seed oil. The result is a mild, biodegradable cleansing agent.
How it works
It works by lowering the surface tension between water and oils, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Because it is an amino-acid-based surfactant, it has a pH close to that of healthy skin, so it cleanses effectively without disrupting the skin's natural barrier or causing tightness.
Pros
Ultra-gentle on skin
Unlike sulfates, this surfactant cleanses without stripping natural oils, leaving skin feeling soft and hydrated rather than tight or irritated.
Eco-friendly profile
Derived from renewable plant sources and biodegradable, it aligns with sustainable beauty practices and reduces environmental impact.
Cons and cautions
Lower foam volume
It produces a creamy, low-lather experience that may not satisfy users who associate heavy foam with effective cleansing.
Higher cost
Amino-acid surfactants are more expensive to produce, so products containing them often come at a premium price point.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin looking for a non-stripping cleanser
- Those who prefer plant-based, mild cleansing ingredients
Use caution if
- Individuals who prefer high-foaming, lather-heavy cleansers
Usage tips
Safety summary
Capryloyl gold of pleasure amino acids is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in the literature.
Research notes
Amino-acid surfactants in general are well-studied for mildness and skin compatibility. While specific studies on this exact ingredient are limited, the broader class is supported by dermatological research showing reduced irritation compared to traditional surfactants.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally; no known restrictions in the EU, US, or Asia.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Body washes, Shampoos, Micellar waters
- Environmental note
- Camelina is a low-input crop that requires less water and fertilizer than many oilseeds, making it a relatively sustainable source.
Good to know
- Gold of pleasure is another name for camelina sativa, an oilseed crop used for centuries in Europe.
- This ingredient is often found in 'low pH' cleansers that respect the skin's acid mantle.
Common questions
What is Gold of Pleasure Amino Acids in beauty products?
This ingredient is a gentle cleanser made by combining fatty acids from camelina (gold of pleasure) oil with amino acids. It helps remove dirt and oil from your skin and hair without causing irritation or dryness, unlike harsher detergents. Think of it as a kinder alternative to sodium lauryl sulfate.
What does Gold of Pleasure Amino Acids do in a beauty product?
It works by lowering the surface tension between water and oils, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Because it is an amino-acid-based surfactant, it has a pH close to that of healthy skin, so it cleanses effectively without disrupting the skin's natural barrier or causing tightness.
Is Gold of Pleasure Amino Acids safe for most people?
Capryloyl gold of pleasure amino acids is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in the literature.
Who should be careful with Gold of Pleasure Amino Acids?
Individuals who prefer high-foaming, lather-heavy cleansers
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.