Silica / silicon

Silver· human data

Also known as: Silicon, Orthosilicic acid

Marketed for hair, skin and connective tissue on early, thin evidence.

Silicon (taken as silica or orthosilicic acid) is involved in collagen formation and bone matrix, which underpins its marketing for hair, skin, nails and connective tissue.

Some early human data hint at benefits to bone and collagen-rich tissues, but the evidence is thin and the cosmetic claims outpace it. It is generally well tolerated; expectations should be modest.

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Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale, MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.

Last reviewed: