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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Keratin vs Silica: Silica has the stronger overall evidence (5 vs 3/10); they're alternatives for stronger nails — the best pick depends on your goals. Take the 60-second quiz for a pick tailored to your goals.
Silica wins 2 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Mostly mechanism / observational
Top outcomes
Verdict
Mostly mechanism / observational
Top outcomes
Shared outcomes (1)
Outcomes where both Keratin and Silica have evidence — compare verdict strength side-by-side.
~500-1000 mg hydrolyzed/solubilized keratin daily (trial-typical); Cynatine HNS trial used 500 mg keratin plus vitamins/minerals
with-meals
Solubilized keratin (Cynatine HNS) or feather keratin hydrolysate
5-10mg elemental silicon daily
With meals
Choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA)
~90 days
~90 days
12-20 weeks
12-20 weeks
12-20 weeks
6-12 months
A clinical trial to investigate the effect of Cynatine HNS on hair and nail parameters.
ScientificWorldJournal (2014) · Rct · n=50
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 50 women (25 active, 25 placebo)
The Effects of an Oral Supplementation of a Natural Keratin Hydrolysate on Skin Aging: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study in Healthy Women.
J Cosmet Dermatol (2025) · Rct
Three-arm RCT: 500 mg or 1000 mg feather keratin hydrolysate vs placebo in adult women
Feather keratin hydrolysates obtained from microbial keratinases: effect on hair fiber.
BMC Biotechnol (2013) · In vitro
Laboratory study producing keratin peptides and testing them in topical hair formulations
Association between the Composition of Drinking Water and Cognitive Function in the Elderly: A Systematic Review
International journal of environmental research and public health (2024) · Systematic review · n=10
The prevalence of dementia increases with nearly 10 million new cases each year, with Alzheimer's disease contributing to 60-70% of cases.
Use of silicon for skin and hair care: an approach of chemical forms available and efficacy
Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia (2016) · Review
On the skin, it is suggested that silicon is important for optimal collagen synthesis and activation of hydroxylating enzymes, improving skin strength and elasticity.
Collagen peptide supplementation in combination with resistance training improves body composition and increases muscle strength in elderly sarcopenic men: a randomised controlled trial
The British journal of nutrition (2015) · Rct · n=53
Isokinetic quadriceps strength (IQS) of the right leg was determined and sensory motor control (SMC) was investigated by a standardised one-leg stabilisation test.
Based on multiple meta-analyses showing dose-response relationship for occupational crystalline silica exposure and respiratory disease risk. This represents HARMFUL effects from inhalational exposure, not benefits from dietary supplementation. Studies support reducing exposure limits from 0.1 to 0.05 mg/m³. No studies provided support beneficial effects of silica supplementation for hair, nails, skin, or bone health.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Silica has a higher evidence score (5/10 vs 3/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
For stronger nails, Keratin has a higher relevance score (55 vs 50).
No known interactions between Keratin and Silica have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.
The right pick depends on your goals. Answer a few quick questions for a personalised recommendation — or dig into the full evidence on each.