Yes, skin can absorb gold, specifically in the form of gold nanoparticles.
How Skin Absorbs Gold Nanoparticles
Although gold in its elemental form is not readily absorbed through the skin, gold nanoparticles can be. This is important because gold nanoparticles are increasingly being used in various products, including some skincare and cosmetic items. Once absorbed, they do not remain in the skin but are distributed to other parts of the body.
What Happens After Absorption?
According to research, once gold nanoparticles are absorbed through the skin, they primarily end up in the liver and spleen. Here's what happens:
- Internalization by Macrophages: Immune cells called macrophages ingest the gold nanoparticles.
- Sequestration in Lysosomes: The macrophages then trap the nanoparticles inside lysosomes, which are like the "waste recycling centers" of the cells.
This process of absorption and distribution is a key factor in understanding the potential impact of gold nanoparticles on the body, especially in long-term or repeated exposure.
Practical Insights and Considerations:
- Cosmetics and Skincare: Be aware that products containing gold nanoparticles can lead to their absorption through the skin.
- Research and Medicine: Gold nanoparticles are being explored for various medical applications, including drug delivery, where their absorption properties are being studied.
- Further Research Needed: The long-term effects of gold nanoparticle absorption on the human body are still being researched.
In summary, while elemental gold isn’t easily absorbed through the skin, gold nanoparticles are and tend to accumulate in organs like the liver and spleen following absorption through the skin.
