BioStacksHow Silica supports hair
Silica is a supporting nutrient for hair support. Trace mineral involved in collagen cross-linking, glycosaminoglycan synthesis, and bone mineralization. Population studies associate higher silicon intake (~40 mg/day) with greater bone mineral density. Choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA, brand BioSil) is the most clinically studied form with ~50% bioavailability. In clinical studies, silica strengthens hair and reduces nail brittleness.
Effective dosing
Most evidence supports 5–30 mg of silica daily. Clinical trials use 5–30 mg elemental silicon/day. ch-OSA studies typically use 6–12 mg Si/day for bone and 10 mg Si/day for skin/hair/nails. Products below this range may not deliver meaningful results.
Form and bioavailability
Avoid silicon dioxide — minimal oral bioavailability. Avoid colloidal silica — poorly absorbed particulate form. Look for choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-osa) or orthosilicic acid for better absorption.
Clinical research
Silica has moderate clinical evidence for hair benefits. A few clinical trials on bone and skin health, but evidence is limited to specific forms like ch-OSA Learn more
