💊 What it does
Silicon (as dietary silica or orthosilicic acid) plays a role in bone mineralisation, collagen synthesis, and skin, hair, and nail health. It is required for the cross-linking of collagen and may support bone density alongside calcium and vitamin D. Interest has grown in its potential for skin elasticity and joint health, though clinical evidence remains limited.
👤 Who needs it
People interested in skin elasticity, hair strength, and nail health. Those with bone density concerns. Anyone seeking connective tissue support alongside vitamin C and collagen precursors.
🥦 Food sources first
Good dietary sources: wholegrains (oats, barley, brown rice), bananas, root vegetables, green beans, mineral water (silica content varies widely). A diet rich in wholegrains and vegetables provides reasonable silicon intake.
🗓 When to supplement
For hair, nail, and skin health support when dietary intake is low. For bone health as part of a broader mineral protocol.
🏷 Best form to look for
Orthosilicic acid (OSA) — specifically ch-OSA (choline-stabilised orthosilicic acid) — is the most bioavailable and well-studied form. Horsetail extract standardised to silica content is the most common herbal source.
⏰ When to take it
With meals. Morning is conventional for beauty-focused applications.