Boosting Skin Health with NAD+: How Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Powers Your Skin

NAD in Skincare: Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide

NAD is found in many new antiaging skincare products and supplements. How does NAD work, what are the benefits, and is it safe? I am a dermatologist in Miami who writes a lot about new antiaging ingredients used in skincare. NAD in skincare is a hot topic right now. This blog will discuss what NAD is and what data suggests it is good for preventing skin wrinkles and aging.

To find the best skincare products to prevent aging take our skin type quiz and learn what products and ingredients are best for your Baumann Skin Type.

What is NAD?

NAD, NAD+ , or NAD plus are all abbreviations for Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, a vital molecule that keeps our cells functioning optimally by helping them generate energy to power all cell functions such as making collagen, performing autophagy, and repairing DNA . NAD+ is a crucial coenzyme found in all living cells that plays a fundamental role in metabolic processes, particularly in the generation of energy. Understanding how NAD+ contributes to cellular energy requires a dive into the cellular respiration process, particularly the electron transport chain (ETC) and its role in ATP production, the energy currency of the cell.

As we age, our NAD+ levels decline, leading to reduced cellular health and visible signs of aging. This is why the new health trend is taking NAD+ supplements, injections, and using NAD+ in topical skincare products- mostly antiaging serums.

Is NAD the same as Vitamin B3

NAD and Vitamin B3

NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) has a direct and essential relationship with Vitamin B3, also known as niacin. This relationship is rooted in the biosynthesis of NAD+ itself, as Vitamin B3 serves as a precursor for the synthesis of NAD+. There are three main forms of Vitamin B3: niacin (nicotinic acid), nicotinamide (also known as niacinamide), and nicotinamide riboside. Each of these forms can be converted into NAD+ through distinct biochemical pathways within the human body, highlighting the critical role of Vitamin B3 in cellular energy metabolism and overall health.

NAD+ in Skincare

NAD+ plays a pivotal role in maintaining skin health by fueling cellular processes that repair DNA, generate energy, and fortify skin cells against stress and damage. The problem is that NAD is such a large molecule that it cannot penetrate into the skin. For this reason, in topical skincare NAD precursors must be used. This is why oral supplements and injections of NAD are more effective than topical products.

Applying NAD precursors directly to the skin may reduce the causes of skin aging and protect against environmental stressors.

Wrinkle Prevention

Topically applied NAD+ or its precursors can penetrate the skin to some extent, offering direct benefits by boosting cellular energy and promoting repair mechanisms. This can lead to improved skin texture, reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and enhanced overall skin health.

Benefits of NAD Precursors in Skincare

By enhancing cellular energy production, NAD+ enables skin cells to maintain optimal health, conduct necessary repairs more efficiently, and support the renewal process. This is particularly important for skin cells, as they are constantly exposed to external factors that can cause damage.

Skincare brands with NAD

Skincare Brands with NAD

We are in the process of independently evaluating these skincare brands that contain NAD precursors. Stay tuned to see if they meet our criteria.

Aramore

This skincare brand has NAD precursors. I have not finished testing it so I do not have an opinion about it yet.

NADERMA

This is the skincare brand launched by David Sinclair. It has NAD in it but I have not seen absorption studies to know if it can get into the skin.

NAD+ Supplements

Oral supplements containing NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside or nicotinamide mononucleotide, can increase the body’s NAD+ levels, supporting skin health from within. These precursors are converted into NAD+ in the body, bolstering the skin’s ability to repair and regenerate.

Safety of supplements

Research indicates NAD+ supplementation is generally safe, with minimal side effects. However, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

NAD+ Injections

NAD+ injections involve the direct administration of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide into the bloodstream via an intravenous (IV) drip. This method bypasses the digestive system, potentially offering a more immediate and potent way to elevate NAD+ levels in the body compared to oral supplements. By injecting NAD+ directly into the bloodstream, it is theorized that this coenzyme can more efficiently reach cells throughout the body, enhancing cellular functions almost immediately. NAD+ plays a pivotal role in metabolic processes, including the conversion of nutrients into energy, DNA repair, and supporting cellular health.

Benefits of NAD injections

Benefits of NAD Injections

Boosting NAD+ levels directly may amplify these processes, potentially offering various health benefits such as:

Enhanced Energy Production: NAD+ is critical for mitochondrial function, the powerhouses of cells, which generate energy. Higher levels of NAD+ can potentially lead to improved energy levels.

Anti-Aging Effects: Given NAD+’s role in DNA repair and cell health, injections may contribute to slowing down aging processes at a cellular level, potentially mitigating age-related decline.

Improved Cognitive Function: Some evidence suggests that boosting NAD+ levels could support brain health, enhancing cognitive function and possibly offering benefits for neurodegenerative diseases.

Addiction and Recovery Support: There’s emerging interest in using NAD+ therapy to aid in addiction recovery, with some clinics offering it as part of detoxification protocols, claiming it can reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

Safety of Injections

Use of NAD is very new and not yet mainstream so we do not know a lot about it. This is what I could find out about safety of IV infusions:

Scientific Evidence: While promising, the body of rigorous scientific research on the efficacy and long-term safety of NAD+ injections is still growing. More studies are needed to firmly establish their benefits and optimal dosing protocols.

Cost and Accessibility: NAD+ injections can be expensive and are not widely available in traditional medical settings. They are more commonly found in specialized clinics and wellness centers.

Side Effects: Although generally considered safe, some individuals may experience side effects from NAD+ injections, such as discomfort at the injection site, nausea, fatigue, and headaches. The procedure should be performed under medical supervision.

Benefits of NAD+

NAD has too many benefit to count because it is such an important molecule.

The skin benefits of NAD include:

Smoother skin

Radiant skin

Glowing skin

Even skin tone

Healthy skin

Resistant skin

Importance of NAD in health

Importance of NAD in Health

The conversion of Vitamin B3 into NAD+ is vital for numerous cellular processes, including energy production, DNA repair, and cell signaling. NAD+ acts as a coenzyme in redox reactions, crucial for mitochondrial function and ATP production. It also plays a role in the activation of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) and sirtuins, which are involved in DNA repair and cellular stress responses, respectively.

NAD helps many different skin processes as it has a role in numerous pathways. You need NAD to:

Repair DNA mutations

Make collagen

Make proteins

Regulate the immune system

Make new skin cells

Mediate inflammation

Heal wounds

Aging

As we age, NAD levels naturally decline, leading to a decrease in cellular energy production, reduced capacity for DNA repair, collagen synthesis, decreased autophagy, and diminished skin cell renewal. This contributes to the visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and dullness.

The science of anti-aging has increasingly focused on NAD+ due to its critical role in cellular metabolism, stress resistance, and DNA repair—all factors that influence the aging process. Studies have shown that boosting NAD+ levels can extend the lifespan of yeast, worms, and mice by improving mitochondrial function and increasing resistance to stress. In human skin, increasing NAD+ levels could similarly help to slow the aging process, reduce age-related skin conditions, and improve skin health and appearance.

Science of NAD

Science of NAD+

NAD+ is central to the metabolic processes that convert food into energy at the cellular level. NAD acts as an electron carrier in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, facilitating the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the primary energy currency of the cell. This energy is vital for various cellular activities, including the repair of damaged DNA, which is a common issue in skin cells exposed to UV radiation and other environmental stressors.

Biosynthesis

NAD is such an important molecule in the body that it is made several different ways.

Niacin (Nicotinic Acid): Niacin can be converted into NAD+ through a series of enzymatic reactions that begin with its conversion to nicotinic acid mononucleotide (NAMN). Following this, NAMN is converted into nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide (NAAD), and finally, NAAD is amidated to form NAD+. This pathway, known as the Preiss-Handler pathway, is one of the primary routes for NAD+ biosynthesis from dietary Vitamin B3.

Nicotinamide (Niacinamide): Nicotinamide is another form of Vitamin B3 that can be directly used in the synthesis of NAD+ without causing the “niacin flush,” a common side effect of niacin. Nicotinamide is converted into nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) by the action of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), and NMN is subsequently adenylated to form NAD+. This salvage pathway is crucial for recycling nicotinamide back into NAD+ and maintaining NAD+ levels within cells.

Nicotinamide Riboside: Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a more recently recognized Vitamin B3 derivative that serves as an efficient precursor to NAD+. NR is converted into nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) by the enzyme NR kinase, and then NMN is converted into NAD+. Due to its efficiency in raising NAD+ levels, NR has garnered significant interest as a dietary supplement aimed at boosting NAD+ for health and longevity.

Research on NAD

Research

A 2023 study (3) investigated the protective effects of NAD+ against skin damage caused by UVC radiation. The research, conducted on a mouse model, gave insights into how NAD+ can be a potent agent in protecting the skin from the adverse effects of UVC radiation, which is a critical concern due to the depletion of the atmospheric ozone layer.

Key findings from this study include:

NAD+ Reduces UVC-Induced Skin Damage : Administration of NAD+ was found to significantly decrease the damage caused by UVC radiation to the skin. This was measured using the skin’s green autofluorescence (AF) as a biomarker, which correlated with the extent of skin damage.

Oxidative Stress Reduction : NAD+ significantly attenuated the decreases in levels of mitochondrial superoxide dismutase and catalase induced by UVC, indicating a reduction in oxidative stress.

Inflammation Control : The study observed a significant reduction in UVC-induced increases in the level of cyclooxygenase (COX) 2, a marker of inflammation, following NAD+ administration.

DNA Damage Mitigation : NAD+ administration was also found to profoundly attenuate the increase in double-strand DNA (dsDNA) damage caused by UVC radiation.

Apoptosis Reduction : Finally, NAD+ significantly attenuated the UVC-induced decreases in the ratios of Bcl-2/Bax, an index of apoptosis, showcasing its potential in reducing cell death induced by UVC.

These findings suggest that NAD+ has great potential as a protective agent against UVC-induced skin damage through multiple pathways, including reducing oxidative stress, controlling inflammation, mitigating DNA damage, and reducing apoptosis. Additionally, the study supports the use of skin’s green autofluorescence as a biomarker for predicting UVC-induced skin damage, offering a non-invasive method for early diagnosis and intervention.

This study highlights the multifaceted role of NAD+ in skin health, especially in the context of environmental stressors such as UVC radiation, underscoring its potential in dermatological applications and skin care formulations.

Looking for the best antiaging skincare products for your skin? Take the quiz and we can help!

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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