Silica: The Secret Mineral for Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails

Written by Stéphanie Oswald, Certified Personal Health Advisor and Registered Holistic Nutritionist

The state of our skin, hair, and nails is a clear reflection of what’s happening inside our body. Dry, peeling skin, brittle nails, and dull or thinning hair often point to nutrient deficiencies.

Less known than other minerals, silica (silicon dioxide) is essential for maintaining the integrity of skin, hair, nails, ligaments, tendons, and bones.

In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about this powerful mineral and its many benefits.

The Role of Silica

Silica is a structural mineral that supports the health and beauty of the skin, hair, and nails—and much more.

One of its most important roles is in collagen formation, which is found in high concentrations in both skin and hair. Collagen is the main protein in the skin, keeping it supple and firm, and also plays a vital role in building strong, resilient nails.

Silica helps skin stay soft and hydrated thanks to its incredible ability to bind up to 300 times its weight in water. It has also been shown to slow tissue aging and prevent skin sagging, keeping it firmer and more toned.

For nails, silica improves strength and quality while helping to protect against infections.

As for hair, silica maintains the flexibility of the hair shaft, preventing brittleness. Pregnant women also benefit, as silica supports the skin’s elasticity as the belly grows.

Stronger Bones, Joints, and Teeth

Studies show that a higher intake of silica is linked to increased bone mineral density, which may reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Silica also supports tendon and joint function and helps bones heal faster after fractures.

In addition, silica improves the absorption of vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium—all essential nutrients for bone and dental health. It even plays a role in the renewal of tooth enamel, protecting teeth from cavities.

Other Notable Benefits

We are exposed daily to potential toxins, and silica plays an essential role in binding and eliminating them.

For example, silica can transport toxins such as aluminum through the intestines and out of the body. It also supports cardiovascular health by strengthening arterial walls. Interestingly, people with atherosclerosis (hardened arteries) often have significantly lower levels of silica compared to those with healthy arteries.

Daily Sources of Silica

Silica can be found in many everyday foods, such as asparagus, celery, leafy greens, onions, sunflower seeds, apples, cucumbers, and rhubarb.

To ensure adequate intake, you can also choose a daily silica supplement, like Land Art’s Colloidal Silica or Ionic Silica, both excellent options to maximize its benefits.

Ionic Silica vs. Colloidal Silica

Ionic Silica from Land Art is especially beneficial for adults aged 50 and over. It comes in a highly bioavailable form that is quickly absorbed, which is particularly important as nutrient absorption tends to decline with age.

Colloidal Silica, also from Land Art, is the one I personally take. With daily use, my nails became stronger, my hair shinier and less brittle, and my skin noticeably softer. Colloidal silica is derived from diatoms, fossilized microalgae from the sea, and is suspended in a colloidal emulsion for better bioavailability and easier assimilation.

Tips for Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails

✨ Stay well hydrated—water keeps your skin plump, hair shiny, and nails strong.
🥗 Eat a balanced diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables for essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
🏃 Exercise regularly—proven to support skin youthfulness. Sauna sessions also help detoxify the skin.
☀️ Enjoy the sun safely—use UV protection when outdoors.
🚫 Avoid refined sugar—it breaks down collagen and reduces vitamin C. Cutting back on alcohol and cigarettes also preserves nutrients, reduces toxins, and prevents dehydration.

In Conclusion

Silica is a natural way to support glowing skin, shiny hair, and strong nails while also contributing to bone, joint, and cardiovascular health.

Whatever your needs, Land Art offers natural silica supplements that can help you stay healthy, vibrant, and radiant—inside and out.