NAD+ Skincare: Can NAD Support Skin Health and Aging?

NAD’s Role in Skin Cell Energy and Repair

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in all living cells. It plays a role in energy production and supports cellular functions involved in repair mechanisms.
In skin, cellular energy may contribute to processes like:

• Turnover and regeneration
• Barrier function, particularly after environmental exposure
• Enzyme activity such as sirtuins and PARPs, which respond to oxidative and DNA-related stress

As NAD+ levels decline, these cellular processes may not function as efficiently.

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Collagen, Elasticity, and Oxidative Stress

Visible skin aging may be associated with changes in structural proteins like collagen and elastin. These proteins help maintain firmness and elasticity, but they may degrade over time due to oxidative stress and environmental factors.

NAD+ is involved in cellular pathways that respond to oxidative stress. When NAD+ levels decrease, the ability of cells to maintain structural proteins may also be reduced.
Overall:

• Lower NAD+ levels may be associated with signs of aging
• Supporting NAD+ levels may assist cellular processes linked to skin resilience

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Current Research on NAD+ and Skin Aging

Research into NAD+ and skin health is ongoing. While clinical studies are limited, preliminary biochemical data provides insight into its potential role [1]:

• NAD+ is necessary for enzymes like SIRT1, which are linked to cellular aging markers
• It plays a role in mitochondrial health, which may influence skin cell energy
• NAD+ precursors such as NMN and NR have shown potential to raise NAD+ levels in preclinical studies, which may affect skin barrier-related pathways
  While more research is needed, early data suggests NAD+ may play a role in supporting general skin cell function over time.

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Limitations of Topical NAD+

Some skincare products include NAD+ in topical formulas. However, NAD+ is a large, charged molecule, and may not penetrate the skin barrier effectively.

Even when included in skincare, there is limited evidence showing that NAD+ reaches deeper skin layers in meaningful concentrations.

Ingredients like niacinamide, a NAD+ precursor, may support the skin barrier through different mechanisms, though this is not equivalent to internal NAD+ support.

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Internal NAD+ Support for Skin Health

For individuals looking to support NAD+ more broadly, internal strategies may offer systemic benefits. Factors like stress, aging, poor sleep, and alcohol use may be associated with lower NAD+ levels.

Internal support approaches may include:

• NMN or NR supplementation, which may help increase NAD+ levels
• IV NAD+ therapy, under medical supervision
• Lifestyle changes, including sleep hygiene, fasting, and physical activity
  
  

These strategies may support overall cellular energy production, which can be important for general wellness and skin maintenance.

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Eden’s Whole-Body NAD Optimization Programs

Eden is a digital health platform that connects individuals with licensed healthcare providers who focus on metabolic and preventive wellness. These professionals may recommend NAD+ support strategies based on your individual health profile.
Possible options discussed during a consultation may include:

• Compounded NAD+ or NMN formulations prescribed when appropriate by licensed healthcare providers
• Medications delivered through licensed pharmacies, when prescribed and approved by a licensed healthcare provider
• A system-wide approach to wellness, with a focus on cellular health
  Eden does not create, compound, or dispense medications. It helps facilitate access to state-licensed pharmacies and licensed healthcare providers who guide treatment decisions.

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Elevate Your Skincare Strategy

NAD+ is receiving increased attention in wellness and skincare discussions due to its role in cellular function. While topical NAD+ may offer limited absorption, internal NAD+ support guided by a licensed healthcare provider may offer a more personalized strategy for those exploring skin health optimization.

If you're interested in learning more, Eden can connect you with a licensed healthcare provider to explore available options.

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