active
Orthosilicic Acid
The bioavailable monomeric form of silicon. Present in Icelandic geothermal water formulations as the proposed active silicon compound. Studied for collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis stimulation.
Benefits
- Stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis in fibroblasts
- Supports glycosaminoglycan production (hyaluronic acid, chondroitin)
- Bone and connective tissue formation co-factor
- Antioxidant activity via silicone-hydroxyl interactions
- Bioavailable form of silicon — absorbed more efficiently than colloidal silica
Example uses
- Facial mist sprays
- Collagen support serums
- Premium water-based skincare
- Anti-ageing serums
- Hair strengthening treatments
Mechanism of action
Orthosilicic acid (Si(OH)4) is the monomeric soluble form of silicon that cells can uptake via silicon transporter proteins (NaSi-1). Inside fibroblasts, silicon acts as a prolyl hydroxylase co-factor supporting hydroxylation of proline residues in procollagen chains — an essential step in collagen triple-helix stabilisation. Also stimulates GAG synthesis in chondrocytes and fibroblasts.
Clinical evidence · Emerging
In vitro collagen stimulation studies and nutritional epidemiology data for orthosilicic acid. Cosmetic topical RCTs specifically for orthosilicic acid delivery via mist formulations absent.
Effective concentration range
Trace to 0.1 mg/L in natural waters; up to 0.5% in stabilised formulations
Formulation notes
Water-soluble at low concentrations. Highly diluted in aqueous formulations — stability in acidic conditions better than alkaline. Concentration in natural waters very low.
Watchouts
At typical cosmetic inclusion levels from geothermal water sources, the orthosilicic acid concentration is unlikely to reach the threshold for collagen stimulation documented in cell culture studies. The mechanism is real; the dose-response at cosmetic use is not established.
Controversies & overclaims
The collagen-stimulation mechanism is scientifically plausible and in vitro data is supportive. At natural water source concentrations in cosmetic formulations, the dose delivered is probably well below the threshold demonstrated in cell culture studies.
Market positioning
Marketed as natural silicon collagen co-factor. Mechanism is credible; cosmetic delivery dose adequacy is not established.
Comedogenicity
0 / 5
Sensitisation risk
Low
INCI & aliases
Silicic Acid
silicic acid · monosilicic acid · Si(OH)4 · bioavailable silicon
Clean beauty perception
Accepted in clean beauty as a natural silicon compound. The geothermal water origin provides unique provenance.
Related ingredients
Graph relationships
Timeline