With a booming skin care industry, it is natural for many of you to get confused with the different ingredients. Sometimes all we hear in the head is “what is good for my skin?”; “what product type should I go for?”; “I hope it does not cause my skin to break out.”
Well, calm down! It is great that at least you are trying to make informed decisions. But there comes a time when you see ingredients with almost similar names and you happen to confuse the good ones for the bad ones! Interestingly, Silica and Silicone are one such pair. Where Silicone is known to be harmful for skin, Silica is also considered alike. Let’s clear this dilemma for you!
Factually, Silica is an ingredient that sparks fierce debate among skin care enthusiasts. The name of this ingredient may sound scary but who knew it is actually incredible for your skin! When used topically, it holds the potential to transform your skin. A 2016 research study has demonstrated the role of silica in improving your skin, hair, and overall health.
What is silica?
Silica is also called silicon dioxide (SiO2). It is one of the most abundant natural compounds found in the earth’s crust. Silica is made up of oxygen and silicon atoms. It is also present in your body and plays a crucial role in numerous body functions.
It helps in strengthening your bones, boosting collagen production, improving hair strength, and building up your nails. With the progression of age, levels of silica begin to decline in your body which ultimately leads to weakened bones, cracked nails, wrinkles formation, and hair loss.
Natural sources of silica
Health care experts explain that foods enriched with silica are a great way to fulfill silica deficiencies in your body and skin. However, the need for silica in your body keeps changing with your age. The recommended daily amount of silica for adults ranging in age from 19-50 years old is 9-14 mg/day. Below are the natural sources of silica -
- Banana
- Asparagus
- Green leafy vegetables
- Lentils
- Brown rice
- Seafood
Why is silica used in skin care products?
Many scientific research studies have claimed that silica boosts collagen production.
Collagen is a major building protein of your skin that gives you a youthful and wrinkle-free appearance. Skin care experts explain that both extrinsic and intrinsic factors contribute to collagen destruction in your body. External use of silica is found quite good to improve wrinkle appearance, skin elasticity, and texture.
A research study published in July 2019 has demonstrated that bamboo is a good source of silica that helps in maintaining healthy skin and reducing hair fall. The use of silica is found to improve the condition of sun-damaged skin as well. It is used in the formulation of lotions, sunscreen, acne treatment ointments, and hair care products.
Is silica safe for skin?
Without a doubt! After reading the above information, guess it is quite self explanatory that silica is nothing but beneficial and safe for your skin. But! But! If you still have doubts, here’s the list of benefits of silica for reassurance! Have a look.Benefits of silica
- Keep your skin firm and elastic.
- Boosts collagen production to delay the aging process.
- Helps in faster and stronger.
- Help in faster hair growth while providing lustre and suppleness to your hair.
- Being a strong carrier of oxygen, it increases the flow of both nutrients and oxygen to your skin.
- Lend your skin a natural glow.
- Provides relief in skin inflammation.
- Gives a matte finish to your oily skin.
Silica vs Silicones
P.S.
Many apparent research studies have classified phthalates as a harmful chemical compound for your skin and health. It is still a fairly common ingredient in many personal care products. However, long-term use of phthalates is linked to causing skin allergies and other concerns. Hence, it is good to avoid products that contain such ingredients.
