Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Silicon (often in the form of orthosilicic acid or silica) is supported by scientific evidence for its use in strengthening weak or brittle fingernails. Several clinical studies have demonstrated that supplementation with bioavailable forms of silicon can lead to improvements in nail strength, thickness, and resistance to breakage. The rationale is that silicon is an essential trace element involved in the synthesis of collagen and glycosaminoglycans, which are key structural components of nails. For example, a randomized, placebo-controlled study published in the Archives of Dermatological Research (2007) found that supplementation with choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid significantly improved nail brittleness and increased nail hardness after 20 weeks compared to placebo. Other studies have also found that silicon supplementation can improve the quality of nails, skin, and hair, likely due to its role in connective tissue metabolism. While the number of high-quality, large-scale studies is still limited, the available research indicates a moderate level of evidence (rating: 3) that silicon can be beneficial for individuals with weak or brittle nails. As such, silicon is commonly included in dietary supplements marketed for nail health.

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