The good news? Most options don't even come close to breaking a grand, much less five.
1. 24-Karat Gold Dust
We love the versatility of this Jane Iredale sparkling mica and gold dust, that you can sprinkle on your cheeks, brows and even into lotion for a lightly sparkled decolletage. (Ariva, $14)
2. Allegresse 24K Gold Illuminating Facial Peel
Everyone needs to buff away dead skin cells from time to time, so why not do so with pure gold? This exfoliating facial peel encourages cell turnover for a more balanced skin tone. (Bibasque, $195)
3. Ultra Color Rich 24K Gold Lipstick
Don't be fooled: This creamy 24-karat lipstick from Avon doesn't just come in one color. Instead, pure gold flecks illuminate and brighten lips in eight beautiful shades. (Avon, $23)
4. 24K Jivago Eau de Parfum
Apparently, gold does more than just sparkle — Ilana Jivago's perfume supposedly generates energy with its gold flecks. OK, so that might be a hard sell, but at least we know that its jasmine and amber notes smell delightful. (Ilana Jivago, $135)
5. L'or Radiance Concentrate Make-Up Base
Why not use a golden gel-based primer, like L'or Radiance, to borrow a youthful glow? Slather this gold-infused primer and base into your skin before applying makeup as usual. (Sephora, $73)
6. Boom Boom Pow Luxurious Nail Color
Rihanna started a trend with her gold manicure, but she certainly didn't finish it. This gold-flecked nail polish is wildly beautiful, and it doesn't break the bank. (Dermstore.com, $20)
7. Yves Saint Laurent Golden Gloss
Pucker up with this shimmery lip gloss that looks great by itself or over a darker lip color. The formula is long-lasting and also plumps lips for a full and radiant appearance. (Neiman Marcus, $30)
8. 24K Collagen and Caviar Mask
Denise Richards is a spokeswoman for this moisturizing facial mask that features pure gold, caviar, collagen and aloe vera. It claims to renew aging skin for a youthful appearance, and if Richards is indeed using the product, it clearly works well. (Orogold, $398)
9. Revival Gold Beauty Elixir Day Illuminator
Still not so sure about this gold trend? Try this affordable illuminator to see if gold can brighten and balance your skin as promised. Rub into your cheek bones for an inexpensive and healthy sheen. (Marcelle, $46)
10. Bobbi Brown Long Wear Cream Shadow Stick
While gold dust can flake off easily, this creamy gold eyeshadow is designed to wear all night. Sweep it over your eyelids on a summer day, or build on the color by adding charcoal gray for nighttime. (Barneys New York, $28)
11. Rodial Skincare Bee Venom
Last but not least, this bee venom skin care essence is by far the priciest gold option, but it basically promises to keep you looking young forever. With gold, bee venom and high-tech peptides, it might just work. (Beauty.com, $470)
So what do you think — can gold really make all the difference in your own beauty routine? Or does the trend remind you of Tobias Funke, wearing his wife's skin cream made from crushed diamonds?
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