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January 09, 2025 5 min read
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every cell of our body. It plays a central role in metabolism by helping turn nutrients into energy and by regulating critical bodily functions such as DNA repair and cell survival. Over the years, scientists have discovered that NAD+ levels naturally decline as we age, and this decline has been linked to several aspects of aging – including the visible signs of skin aging. When our skin cells lack sufficient NAD+, they may lose their ability to effectively repair damage from environmental stressors like UV light and pollution, leading to a dull, tired appearance and the formation of wrinkles.
This discovery has generated significant interest among skincare experts and cosmetic formulators who believe that boosting NAD+ levels might lead to healthier, more youthful skin. Whether taken as an oral supplement, a topical treatment with NAD+ precursors, or through more advanced methods like IV infusions, the promise of NAD+ is sparking a new wave of anti-aging strategies that target the root cause of cellular aging rather than simply treating its symptoms.
Increases Energy, Enhances Cognitive Function, and supports healthy aging.
Learn MoreAt the cellular level, NAD+ is essential for energy production. It plays a key role in powering the mitochondria, which are the energy “factories” of our cells. In addition to its role in cell metabolism, NAD+ is also critical for the activation of proteins known as sirtuins. Sirtuins are involved in DNA repair, inflammation control, and the regulation of cell survival pathways. They have been described as “longevity proteins” because their activation can slow down various processes that lead to cellular aging.
Skin is an organ that is constantly exposed to environmental stressors. UV radiation, for example, can cause oxidative damage and DNA breaks in skin cells. Under normal circumstances, repair enzymes—which rely on NAD+ as a cofactor—respond to this damage quickly. However, when NAD+ levels fall, the skin's ability to repair itself diminishes. As a result, DNA damage accumulates, cellular senescence (aging of cells) increases, and the skin begins to show more pronounced signs of aging such as wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and uneven pigmentation.
Studies have shown that replenishing NAD+ not only supports energy metabolism and DNA repair but may also improve the overall resilience of the skin. Researchers are exploring both topical and systemic methods to boost NAD+, with early evidence suggesting that increasing the availability of NAD+ precursors can result in a more efficient repair process and promote skin regeneration.
Increases Energy, Enhances Cognitive Function, and supports healthy aging.
Learn MoreThe process of skin aging is multifaceted. It involves a gradual decline in the skin’s ability to maintain homeostasis—its natural balance of cell renewal and repair. One of the key factors contributing to these changes is the reduction in NAD+ levels over time. As we age, not only does the concentration of NAD+ drop, but its ability to support the repair of damaged DNA and the production of new proteins also weakens. This inability to effectively repair and regenerate gives rise to increased inflammation and cellular damage.
A lower NAD+ level can lead to several negative effects on the skin:
With these roles in mind, it becomes clear that maintaining proper levels of NAD+ is critical for skin health. A skin regimen that includes ways of boosting NAD+ might help slow down these aging processes and support a more vibrant, resilient complexion.
Increases Energy, Enhances Cognitive Function, and supports healthy aging.
Learn MoreOne of the most exciting aspects of NAD+ research is its relationship with cellular repair and regeneration. Every day, our skin cells are bombarded by stressors that can cause DNA breaks and protein damage. In response, the body activates repair pathways that rely heavily on NAD+. For instance, the enzyme PARP-1, which is crucial for the repair of single- and double-stranded DNA breaks, uses NAD+ as a substrate. Similarly, sirtuins, especially SIRT1, assist in removing harmful metabolites and encourage proper gene expression for cell survival.
By supplementing with NAD+ or its precursors, some studies suggest that you could potentially boost these internal repair systems. The increased availability of NAD+ means that skin cells can more effectively cycle through the repair processes, slowly reversing some of the cellular damage accumulated over time. This improved repair capability can translate into a reduction in signs of aging, a more even skin tone, and an overall healthier skin appearance.
In many emerging skincare products, ingredients such as nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) are utilized because they serve as precursors to NAD+. When applied topically, these compounds can penetrate the skin and get converted into NAD+ within the cells, thereby locally boosting repair processes and reducing inflammation.
Increases Energy, Enhances Cognitive Function, and supports healthy aging.
Learn MoreThere are different strategies to incorporate NAD+ into your skincare routine. Two popular methods include oral supplementation and topical application of NAD+ precursors, each of which has distinct advantages and limitations.
Oral Supplements:
Oral supplements often come in the form of nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), both of which are precursors that the body converts into NAD+. These supplements are designed to boost overall NAD+ levels, potentially improving not just skin health but also energy metabolism, cognitive function, and overall vitality. The advantage of this method is that it works systemically, providing benefits across multiple body systems. However, these supplements must pass through the digestive system, and individual absorption rates can vary.
Topical Application:
Topical formulations designed to support skin NAD+ levels typically use derivatives like niacinamide. Niacinamide is well-known for its role in reducing inflammation, brightening the skin, and improving barrier function. While direct application of pure NAD+ is challenging because of its molecular size and stability issues, these precursor compounds can effectively penetrate the skin barrier and are converted into NAD+ locally. This localized boost can temper UV-induced damage and support enhanced collagen synthesis directly in the skin layers.
When deciding between these methods, it is important to consider your personal skin goals. Some may prefer the targeted approach of topicals, while others might enjoy the broader health benefits of oral supplementation. Many experts recommend a combination of both to achieve balanced systemic and local effects.
Increases Energy, Enhances Cognitive Function, and supports healthy aging.
Learn MoreBeyond traditional supplementation, the beauty and skincare industry is exploring innovative ways to boost NAD+ levels in the skin through the use of precursors and complementary ingredients. One promising approach involves the use of a combination of nicotinamide (niacinamide) with other natural compounds that help to stabilize and recycle NAD+ within the cells.
These NAD+ precursors work to optimize the available cellular energy by supporting processes such as mitochondrial function and autophagy (the body’s way of cleaning out damaged cells). Autophagy plays a critical role in maintaining both cellular health and longevity by removing damaged proteins and organelles. Activation of autophagy can result in the rejuvenation of cells, an effect that is particularly beneficial for actively renewing skin tissue.
By targeting multiple aspects of the cell’s energy metabolism and repair mechanisms, these complex formulations aim to create a robust defense against environmental stressors. For instance, products formulated with NAD+ precursors along with antioxidants—like vitamin C and resveratrol—can provide enhanced protection against oxidative stress. This multi-targeted approach not only supports overall skin vitality but also reduces inflammation, smooths fine lines, and improves skin tone.
Increases Energy, Enhances Cognitive Function, and supports healthy aging.
Learn MoreWhile skincare products and supplements can help boost NAD+ levels, lifestyle factors also play an important role in maintaining a healthy supply of this vital molecule. Several everyday habits have been shown to influence NAD+ levels:
By combining healthy lifestyle choices with targeted skincare routines and supplements, you can maximize your body’s natural ability to produce and sustain optimal levels of NAD+. This holistic approach is essential for achieving lasting, youthful skin and overall vitality.
Increases Energy, Enhances Cognitive Function, and supports healthy aging.
Learn MoreDermatologists and aesthetic clinicians across the globe are increasingly interested in the potential of NAD+ to transform anti-aging skincare. Experts emphasize that while the scientific community is still in the process of fully understanding the mechanisms behind NAD+ and its impact on skin cells, early evidence is promising.
Some key expert opinions include:
While more research is needed to directly correlate NAD+ boosters with dramatic improvements in skin aging, the growing consensus is that maintaining high cellular NAD+ levels is a promising strategy. As studies continue to evolve, many expect that NAD+ will become a cornerstone in personalized skincare regimens.
Increases Energy, Enhances Cognitive Function, and supports healthy aging.
Learn MoreThe future of NAD+ in the world of skincare looks vibrant and full of potential. As advancements in biotechnology and molecular science progress, new formulations and delivery methods for NAD+ are emerging. Innovations include:
As the research community refines its understanding of NAD+ and its applications, the skincare industry is poised to transform traditional anti-aging treatments. This could lead to more effective, science-backed products and procedures that not only delay the visible signs of aging but also restore the skin’s overall health at a cellular level.
Increases Energy, Enhances Cognitive Function, and supports healthy aging.
Learn MoreThe question "Does NAD help with skin?" now has a multifaceted answer. NAD+ is much more than a simple anti-aging ingredient—it is a cornerstone of cellular energy, repair, and resilience. By supporting vital processes such as DNA repair and mitochondrial function, adequate NAD+ levels can mitigate some aspects of skin aging, including inflammation, reduced collagen production, and cellular senescence.
Both oral supplements and topically applied NAD+ precursors have shown promise in boosting skin health. While more research is necessary to fully establish the efficacy of direct NAD+ supplementation for visible skin rejuvenation, early evidence and expert insights suggest that optimizing NAD+ levels can contribute significantly to maintaining a youthful, vibrant complexion.
Integrating a balanced lifestyle with appropriate nutrition, regular exercise, and proper skin care will maximize these benefits. As science continues to uncover the intricate roles of NAD+ in our cells, the future of cosmetic and therapeutic skincare looks set to embrace this molecule as a key ally in the fight against aging.
If you’re looking to explore the benefits of NAD+ for your skin and overall health, now is the time to take action. Embrace a holistic approach that combines lifestyle habits with targeted skincare and supplementation to unlock the potential of NAD+.
Increases Energy, Enhances Cognitive Function, and supports healthy aging.
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