Ingredient review
Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure
INCI: Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure
A gentle, plant-derived humectant that helps hydrate and soften skin without clogging pores.
In plain English
Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure is a water-soluble version of oil from the camelina plant (also called false flax). It helps your skin hold onto moisture, making it feel softer and smoother. Because it's hydrolyzed (broken down into smaller pieces), it can mix easily into water-based products like serums and lotions.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
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
- natural
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure 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 Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure.
- 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
A hydrolyzed (water-soluble) derivative of camelina sativa seed oil, produced by breaking the oil into smaller, water-friendly molecules. Camelina is an ancient oilseed crop known for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
How it works
When applied to skin, it forms a thin, breathable film that helps reduce water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL). The smaller hydrolyzed molecules can also penetrate the upper layers of the skin to deliver fatty acids and antioxidants, supporting the skin's natural barrier function.
Pros
Lightweight hydration
Unlike heavy oils, hydrolyzed gold of pleasure absorbs quickly and won't leave a sticky or greasy feel, making it ideal for daytime use.
Barrier-friendly
It helps reinforce the skin's natural moisture barrier, which can reduce sensitivity and dryness over time.
Cons and cautions
Limited research on this form
Most studies focus on whole camelina oil, not the hydrolyzed version, so the exact benefits of the hydrolyzed form are less documented.
May not be enough for very dry skin
If you have severely dry or dehydrated skin, you may need a richer occlusive ingredient alongside this humectant.
Best for
- People with normal to combination skin looking for light hydration
- Those who prefer plant-based, non-greasy moisturizing ingredients
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to camelina or Brassicaceae family plants
Usage tips
Safety summary
Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or allergic reaction. As with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended for sensitive individuals.
Research notes
While camelina oil has been studied for its omega-3 content and skin barrier benefits, specific research on the hydrolyzed form is limited. Existing evidence supports its use as a gentle humectant and skin conditioner.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the US and EU. No specific restrictions.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Serums, Face oils, Eye creams
- Environmental note
- Camelina is a low-input crop that requires less water and fertilizer than many other oilseeds, making it a more sustainable choice.
Good to know
- Gold of Pleasure is an old English name for camelina, which has been used for centuries as a cooking oil and skin treatment.
- It is often found in 'clean beauty' products due to its natural origin and gentle profile.
Common questions
What is Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure in beauty products?
Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure is a water-soluble version of oil from the camelina plant (also called false flax). It helps your skin hold onto moisture, making it feel softer and smoother. Because it's hydrolyzed (broken down into smaller pieces), it can mix easily into water-based products like serums and lotions.
What does Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure do in a beauty product?
When applied to skin, it forms a thin, breathable film that helps reduce water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL). The smaller hydrolyzed molecules can also penetrate the upper layers of the skin to deliver fatty acids and antioxidants, supporting the skin's natural barrier function.
Is Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure safe for most people?
Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or allergic reaction. As with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended for sensitive individuals.
Who should be careful with Hydrolyzed Gold of Pleasure?
Individuals with known allergies to camelina or Brassicaceae family plants
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.