The French Chemist Who Saw Something Different in Silicon In 1957, a French chemist named Norbert Duffaut began exploring an unusual idea. Silicon is one of the most abundant elements on Earth. It's found in rocks, sand and soil, and it also occurs naturally in the human body, where it has attracted scientific interest for its possible involvement in connective tissues. But Duffaut wasn't interested in ordinary silica. He wanted to investigate what might be possible with a different form of silicon — one that could be incorporated into preparations for biological use. His work led him towards organosilicon compounds, including a substance known as monomethylsilanetriol. It was the beginning of a story that would continue for decades. From Laboratory Research to the Skin As early as 1962, research associated with Duffaut was investigating how substances could be absorbed through the skin using organosilicon complexes. Decades later, in 2019, researchers investigating monomethylsilanetriol made an interesting discovery. Using human skin samples in laboratory experiments, they demonstrated that this form of silicon could penetrate the skin and reach its living layers. Meet FX Silica FX Silica brings that organosilicon chemistry into a modern topical formulation. At its heart is silanetriol, a form of organosilicon related to the compound that featured in Duffaut's research. But the formulation doesn't stop there. FX Silica also contains glucosamine and chondroitin, two substances familiar to anyone who has investigated joint supplements. Both occur naturally in the body. Glucosamine is involved in the production of compounds found in cartilage, while chondroitin is a component of the cartilage's extracellular matrix. The formula also includes blackcurrant leaf extract, a botanical ingredient with a history of traditional use. Together, they create a distinctive combination of organosilicon chemistry, familiar joint-related ingredients and a plant extract, all in a gel designed for application directly to the skin. A Different Approach to a Familiar Routine The gel can be massaged into the skin as part of a daily routine, without the need to swallow another supplement. Its formulation also includes ingredients that help create a smooth, spreadable texture, making it convenient to apply where required. The story behind FX Silica is of research stretching back to a curious French chemist in the 1950s, brought together with ingredients that have long attracted interest in joint health. FX Silica Soothing Gel — 150ml tube.