BioStacksWhy Silica for Skin
For skin support, Silica is a supporting ingredient backed by research. 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. In clinical studies, silica promotes skin elasticity and reduces roughness.
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.
The evidence behind silica
Research supporting silica for skin is rated as moderate. A few clinical trials on bone and skin health, but evidence is limited to specific forms like ch-OSA Learn more