An ally of healthy hair, silicon can be an alternative for hair strength and resistance.
Having thick hair is many people's dream, but it's important to understand how hair works and the reasons for it being thicker or thinner. Patricia Damasco, a dermatologist with a specialization from the State University of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ) and a member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD) explains that there can be different causes for having thin hair. "When the factor is hereditary, there's no way to reverse it, because each person has a genetic code that influences the shape of the hair. There is also thinning caused by external factors that act on its degradation, such as the use of chemical products," she explains.
Hair is made up of an average of 80% proteins, with keratin being present in the greatest quantity - it gives the hair strength and resistance, helping to protect the inside of the hair from external aggressions. The rest is made up of water, lipids, pigments and minerals. Dr. Patricia Damasco points out that for this structure to remain intact, nutrition plays an extremely important role.
"The hair fiber is made up of proteins, which means it also needs raw materials to make it. The micronutrients, which are vitamins and minerals, act on the follicle's biosynthetic and energy metabolism. Macronutrients (proteins) together with calories are essential for follicle proliferation. That's why low-calorie diets, nutritional deficiencies and malnutrition are also responsible for increased hair loss and hair changes," says the professional.
For those with thinning hair due to the use of chemical products and poor diet, supplementation can be an effective alternative. Silicon, when in the form of orthosilicic acid (soluble in water), contributes to maintaining the structures of the skin, hair and nails. For this reason, its deficiency can lead to loss of hair thickness and volume, as well as increased hair loss and breakage. Dr. Patricia Damasco explains that, when combined with other elements, silicon supplementation can improve the quality of the hair and contribute to collagen synthesis. In addition, the mineral actively participates in the structure of bones and connective tissue proteins, such as elastin, collagen and proteoglycans.
"Collagen peptides and silicon act synergistically, increasing the resistance and anchoring of the hair. Biotin, pantothenic acid and thiamine help with hair metabolism. Cysteine, the main amino acid in keratin, provides strength and rigidity. When these components are combined, the result tends to be an increase in the hair's tensile strength, greater shine and less hair loss, all of which contribute to strengthening the hair".
The doctor who is a member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology advises keeping calm, because not all hair loss is a problem. This is because there are hairs in different phases on the scalp. This is a cyclical process of replacement. "It's normal to lose around 100 to 150 hairs a day, but what needs to be observed is the duration of this loss and when the scalp starts to show flaws."
Although silicon is the second most abundant element on the planet, after oxygen, not all of its forms are suitable for human consumption. Orthosilicic acid is the most bioavailable form, as some factors compromise its absorption, such as the crystalline form, which is insoluble (silica and silicates) and also changes in gastric pH, largely caused by the use of medication and ageing itself. This element can also be consumed in cereals, fruit and vegetable derivatives, but due to enzymatic action its absorption is reduced The stabilization of orthosilicic acid in choline, known as Nutricolin, is the most bioavailable form with a positive action on the strength, resistance and thickness of the hair.
Dr. Patricia Damasco stresses that finding the true origin of the problem is the most effective solution when it comes to treatment. "Hair-related complaints are sensitive issues that require in-depth investigation, as they interfere with the self-esteem of patients who seek help at our offices. But it's not always a purely aesthetic issue. That's why each case is different and only a good assessment will reveal the cause and, with the guidance of a professional, indicate the most assertive solution," he adds.
But that doesn't have to be a problem anymore. The number one hair care brand is bringing in a new ally: Pantogar Resist Silicon, a food supplement for increasing the strength, resistance and anchoring of hair. The formula contains Organic Silicon + Peptan® Collagen + Cysteine + Biotin + Zinc and, of course, the innovation doesn't stop there. This is the first sachet product exclusively for hair loss care, which also helps to increase the thickness of the shaft, shine and resistance of the hair fiber and reduce hair breakage.