Silica: This forgotten mineral boosts your hair, nails, and skin!
The quest for glowing skin, strong hair, and resilient nails is not limited to traditional cosmetic care. Among the often underestimated elements is silica, an essential mineral with amazing properties. Known for its role in strengthening connective tissue, it could well be the natural asset that's missing from your beauty routine.
What is Silica? An Essential Mineral for the Body
Visit silicaor silicon dioxide, is a natural mineral compound that is abundant in the Earth's crust. It is found in plants, water, rocks such as quartz, and in the human body. It is essential for maintaining the structure of bones, skin, hair, and nails.
With age, the amount of silica in our bodies gradually decreases, impacting the quality of skin and hair tissue. This loss contributes in particular to a loss of skin elasticity and the appearance of visible signs of aging.
The Natural Origins of Silica
Silica is mainly extracted:
- Plants rich in silicon such as horsetail, bamboo, or certain algae.
- Mineral formations such as sand, sandstone, and quartz.
Its natural form is transformed into ultra-fine powder or liquid solutions for cosmetic use.
The Benefits of Silica for the Skin
1. Strengthening Connective Tissues
Silicon, derived from silica, stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. In particular, it increases the concentration of’hydroxyproline, an amino acid crucial to collagen structure.
2. Cell Repair and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Silica facilitates bonds between protein molecules, thereby strengthening the skin's ability to retain moisture. Its natural anti-inflammatory action also helps to soothe irritation and promotes cell repair.
3. Hair and Nail Health
By efficiently transporting nutrients to hair follicles, silica:
- Accelerates hair growth.
- Strengthens hair fibers against breakage.
- Prevents hair thinning.
It is also beneficial for strengthening fragile nails and improving their resistance.
Cosmetic Applications of Silica
In cosmetology, silica is valuable for:
- Firm and deeply moisturize the skin, integrated into anti-aging skincare.
- Mattify the skin and reduce shine thanks to its absorbent properties.
- Improve the texture of products such as powders, foundations, and skincare products for oily skin.
- Gently exfoliate the skin with scrub formulas.
- Revitalize hair and improve facial radiance, use as a mask.
- Stabilize the texture of products such as lipsticks or nail polish.
Precautions and Potential Side Effects
Although silica is generally well tolerated, certain precautions are necessary:
- Skin irritations : Avoid excessive use on dry skin due to its absorbent effect.
- Hair dryness : limit use on fine or dry hair.
