NAD+ Cream vs. Retinol

Explore the differences between NAD+ cream and retinol and learn how each may align with your skincare and wellness goals.

Key takeaways
  • NAD+ cream may be explored as part of personalized skincare or wellness discussions with licensed healthcare providers.
  • Retinol is a vitamin A derivative found in many over-the-counter skincare products.
  • NAD+ is typically accessed through licensed provider consultations; retinol is available over the counter and by prescription.
  • The two ingredients serve different purposes and may complement one another when guided by a licensed provider.
  • Eden connects individuals to licensed professionals for support with personalized skincare and wellness strategies.

In skincare and wellness conversations, two ingredients are standing out: retinol and NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). Retinol has been widely used in topical products for decades. NAD+ cream, on the other hand, is emerging in wellness routines that involve consultation with licensed healthcare providers.

In this guide, we’ll help you understand how NAD+ cream and retinol compare, what each ingredient is, and how they may be included in a personalized wellness strategy.

Is NAD+ Face Cream right for you?

Is NAD+ Face Cream right for you?

Get started

What Is Retinol?

Retinol is a form of vitamin A often used in skincare products that are available without a prescription. It is commonly found in serums, night creams, and treatments that focus on exfoliation and texture refinement.

While many people include retinol in their skincare routines, it can cause dryness or irritation, especially when introduced too quickly or used in high concentrations. Individuals often consult a healthcare provider for help managing tolerance and selecting the best formulation.

What Is NAD+?

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every living cell. It plays a central role in energy production and cellular function. NAD+ levels may naturally decline with age, prompting interest in how NAD+ might be included in discussions about aging and skin appearance.

Topical NAD+ cream is being explored by individuals in consultation with licensed healthcare providers. These discussions may include interest in how NAD+ could complement an overall strategy for wellness, skincare, and aging support.

NAD+ is not a drug and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition.

{{primary-cta}}

Key Differences Between NAD+ Cream and Retinol

Feature NAD+ Cream Retinol
Source Naturally occurring coenzyme Vitamin A derivative
Common Use Moisturizers, wellness routines Serums, texture-focused products
Skin Tolerance May be well-tolerated by sensitive skin May cause flaking or dryness initially
Timeline Varies by individual Often gradual over several weeks or months
Access Requires provider consultation Available over the counter or by prescription

Why Is NAD+ Cream Being Explored More Often?

NAD+ is gaining interest because it is discussed in wellness circles as part of a broader approach to energy, skin appearance, and aging support. Rather than focusing only on surface-level effects, some individuals are turning to topical NAD+ formulations as part of more comprehensive strategies guided by licensed healthcare providers.

These formulations are typically not available in retail stores and may be prescribed by licensed providers and filled by compounding pharmacies.

When to Consider Each Option

NAD+ Cream May Be Considered If You:

  • Are looking for a topical option that may be gentler on sensitive skin
  • Want to discuss emerging skincare ingredients with a licensed healthcare provider
  • Are interested in a provider-guided approach that aligns with your appearance and wellness priorities

Retinol May Be Considered If You:

  • Prefer a well-known skincare ingredient with broad availability.
  • Are already familiar with retinol products and how your skin responds to them.
  • Are working with a provider to evaluate your tolerance to actives like vitamin A derivatives.

How NAD+ Cream May Fit Into a Personalized Plan

While retinol is widely accessible, NAD+ cream is often included in more customized care plans involving licensed healthcare providers. These providers may recommend compounded formulations based on your goals and sensitivities.

At Eden, we help individuals connect with medical professionals who can evaluate whether NAD+ cream or other topical formulations may be appropriate as part of a personalized plan. Eden does not create or sell medications and does not make skincare products. Instead, we offer access to qualified providers and licensed pharmacies that fulfill prescriptions.

Are NAD+ Cream and Retinol Used Together?

These ingredients have different functions and are not directly interchangeable. Some individuals may incorporate both into a routine if guided by a licensed healthcare provider. Others may focus on one, based on skin sensitivity or personal wellness preferences.

The best approach depends on what your provider recommends after understanding your skin type, sensitivities, and goals.

Questions to Ask a Licensed Healthcare Provider

  • Could NAD+ cream be appropriate for my personal skincare or wellness goals?
  • How does topical NAD+ fit into a broader wellness plan?
  • Are compounded topical formulations with NAD+ available through your practice?
  • What is the typical process for sourcing these creams from a licensed pharmacy?
  • How does retinol compare in terms of expected tolerance or time to see changes?

Why Use a Platform Like Eden?

Eden is a digital health platform that connects individuals with licensed healthcare providers. We do not manufacture, prescribe, or dispense medications. Our role is to help you access personalized care and, when appropriate, provider-guided topical formulations through licensed pharmacies.

You gain access to trusted care professionals, and they handle your clinical guidance, prescriptions, and support. It’s a seamless way to explore your options with qualified medical oversight.

Please note that NAD or NAD+ cream is not reviewed or approved by the FDA for any claims. 

{{primary-cta}}

Final Thoughts: NAD+ Cream Compared to Retinol

Rather than choosing between NAD+ cream and retinol based on popularity alone, it's helpful to understand how each ingredient may fit into a personalized routine based on guidance from a licensed provider. Retinol has been used for decades in appearance-focused products. NAD+ is a newer addition to wellness-based routines and may be discussed as part of a personalized plan under provider supervision.

If you are exploring next-generation skincare options or looking to discuss advanced ingredients like NAD+, Eden can help you connect with a licensed provider to get started.

Start Your Personalized Wellness Conversation

Eden offers simple, secure access to licensed healthcare providers who understand the intersection of skincare, wellness, and modern treatment options. Your consultation can help you explore topical NAD+, compounded options, or other individualized approaches discussed with your provider.

Book your consult today and take the first step toward a more personalized wellness journey.

Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

Frequently asked questions

NAD+ Face Cream
Restore radiance. Hydrate. Glow daily.
As low as $84/mo*
Get started
Important safety information
Verified Customer
"I had an incredible experience, and the support that Eden provides is 10/10"
Kerstin
Verified Customer
“I had so many questions in the beginning, and both the doctor and customer support were so patient and thorough.”
Lane L.

Is NAD+ Face Cream right for you?

Is NAD+ Face Cream right for you?

Get started

References