Organic silicon and hair: what effect on hair health?

What is silicon, and how is it supplied to the body?

Silicon is a trace element naturally present in the body, particularly in connective tissues such as skin, bones and certain support structures.

Unlike other compounds, the body does not synthesise it itself: silicon must be provided by the diet.

It is found in certain plant-based foods, particularly wholemeal cereals, vegetables and certain silicon-rich mineral waters.

However, these intakes can vary according to eating habits, food quality and processing methods.

This is why some people turn to food supplements to supplement their intake.

Discover Orthosilicic Acid 5 mg, a dietary supplement containing orthosilicic acid rich in silicon and zinc.

Organic silicon and hair: what is the link with hair structure?

The main interest in organic silicon for hair lies in its potential role in the structure and quality of the tissues involved in hair growth.

Hair structure closely linked to its environment

Hair is a complex structure, composed mainly of keratin, a fibrous protein.

But its quality is also closely linked to the condition of the scalp and surrounding tissues.

These tissues are supported by what is known as the extracellular matrix, a support network made up mainly of collagen and structural fibres.

This network plays an essential role in maintaining a favourable environment for hair development.

The role of silicon in connective tissue

In this context, silicon is being studied for its involvement in certain biological functions linked to connective tissue (1-2).

It may play an indirect role in the organisation or stabilisation of the extracellular matrix, particularly in relation to collagen (3-4).

Collagen is a key component of the dermis, including the scalp. Well-structured connective tissue contributes to the quality of the hair's anchorage in the hair follicle, as well as to the overall balance of its environment.

Without directly influencing the hair growth cycle, silicon could help to maintain this environment.

Tissue resistance and hair strength: an indirect link

Some experimental work also suggests a link between silicon and the mechanical properties of tissues, such as their strength and elasticity.

These elements could indirectly influence hair strength (5).

However, these observations must be interpreted with caution. The precise mechanisms are not yet fully understood, and the scientific data available on humans remains limited and sometimes heterogeneous.

Some research has explored the effect of bioavailable forms of silicon on parameters such as hair thickness or strength. However, the results vary depending on the protocols used, the populations studied and the overall nutritional context.

So, rather than attributing silicone to having a direct effect on hair growth or loss, it is preferable to consider it as an element that can be integrated into the overall balance of tissues.

A balance on which hair quality indirectly depends.

When should you consider taking silicon for your hair?

An intake of organic silicon can be considered as part of an overall approach to hair beauty, particularly when dietary intake is unbalanced or insufficient.

Certain everyday situations can also influence tissue balance and, by extension, hair quality: natural ageing, chronic stress, unbalanced lifestyle habits or prolonged periods of fatigue (6-8).

In these contexts, ensuring an appropriate nutritional intake can help maintain a favourable environment for connective tissue.

Beyond the hair sphere, silicon is being researched for its potential role in the structure of skin, nails and bone tissue, again in connection with its involvement in the body's support matrices (9).

With this in mind, some formulations combine silicon with other micronutrients.

Discover Orthosilicic Acid 5 mg, a formula rich in organic silicon combined with synergistic nutrients (choline, carnitine, MSM and several minerals), specifically selected to support connective tissues, as well as skin, nails, hair and bones.

Organic silicon can therefore be incorporated into an overall approach, combining a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle and targeted nutritional supplements.

In addition, certain nutrients have better-documented effects on hair.

In particular, they are involved in recognised biological functions, such as protein synthesis and protecting cells against oxidative stress, both of which are important for maintaining normal hair.

Discover Biotin, a vitamin B8 (or vitamin H) supplement that helps maintain normal hair.

Discover Zinc Orotate, a dietary supplement containing zinc orotate, which helps to maintain normal hair and protect cells against oxidative stress.

Discover Brewer's Yeast Hair Boost, a brewer's yeast supplement enriched with zinc bisglycinate, biotin and vitamin B6, which contributes to the synthesis of cysteine (a constituent of keratin).