DrFeb
Health Guide

Mica

Mica is a mineral used in cosmetics and industrial products, not a dietary nutrient. It provides no health benefits when ingested and can be harmful to the lungs if inhaled. For those seeking skin, hair, and nail health, the essential nutrient Silica is the correct, safe alternative. Silica is a structural mineral that supports collagen production and bone density naturally.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Mica
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Safety Comparison: Mica vs. Silica

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Health Benefit Score (0-10)
Substance →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need Silica (The Healthy Alternative)

  • Collagen Production: Essential for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging.
  • Hair & Nail Strength: Acts as a fortifier against brittleness.
  • Bone Integrity: Supports bone mineral density and skeletal structure.

Deep Dive

While Mica is often seen in shimmery products, Silica is the mineral your body craves for structural health. It is found in the connective tissues of the body and is crucial for the body's ability to repair itself. Unlike Mica, which is inert and passes through the body (or lodges in lungs), Silica is bioactive and necessary for enzymatic processes.

Natural Food Sources for Silica

The best way to consume Silica is through unprocessed plant foods.

FoodAmount% DV
Oat Bran1 cup~14mg
Cucumbers1 cup~8mg
Green Beans1 cup~6mg

Supplementation

Silica supplements are often derived from Horsetail grass. They are useful for those targeting hair/nail growth. Mica should never be consumed as a supplement.

Top Food Sources

Oat Bran
14mg per cup
Cucumbers
8mg per cup
Green Beans
6mg per cup
Basil
5mg per 1/2 cup
Bananas
4mg per fruit

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Mica is not a food ingredient and should never be ingested. It is safe only in external cosmetic applications.
Mica is a sheet mineral used for shimmer; Silica is a structural mineral used by the body for collagen and bone formation.
Yes, some spring waters contain dissolved silica, but food sources like oats and cucumbers are much more reliable.
It is likely a mistake or a confusion with 'Horsetail' (a silica source). Mica has no nutritional value.

Safety & Side Effects

Mica: Do not ingest. Inhalation of dust is hazardous to lungs. Silica: Generally safe in recommended doses. Excessive intake may cause kidney strain.

Scientific References

  • [1]Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology: 'The potential role of silica in skin aging'
  • [2]National Institutes of Health (NIH): Silicon and bone health
  • [3]European Food Safety Authority: Tolerable Upper Intake Levels for Silicon