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NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is one of the newest wave of longevity-inspired skincare ingredients — a coenzyme your cells already use to make energy, repair DNA and manage stress. As skin ages, natural NAD+ levels fall; topical NAD+ (and its precursors like nicotinamide riboside) aim to top up that supply so skin behaves a little younger.
What it is
NAD+ is present in every living cell. In skin, it powers mitochondria (the cell's energy factories) and switches on repair enzymes called sirtuins. Applied topically, small NAD+ molecules — and precursors that convert to NAD+ inside the cell — help keep this energy and repair system running when it would otherwise slow down with age, UV and stress.
What NAD+ does for skin
- Boosts cellular energy so skin renews and repairs more efficiently.
- Supports DNA repair after daily UV and pollution damage.
- Improves skin resilience — less reactive, less tired-looking.
- Softens fine lines, dullness and loss of firmness that come from age-related energy decline.
- Pairs powerfully with PDRN, peptides and growth factors — all part of the 'regeneration' family.
How to use it
- Cleanse and tone as usual.
- Apply an NAD+ ampoule or serum to clean, damp skin — usually 2–3 drops for the whole face.
- Layer a nourishing moisturiser on top. Most NAD+ formulas suit evening use (paired with PDRN or peptides), but many are gentle enough for both AM and PM.
- Always follow with SPF 50 in the morning.
What to expect
- Within 2 weeks: skin feels less tired, hydration and glow improve.
- Within 4–6 weeks: softer fine lines, better skin tone, calmer reactivity.
- Within 8–12 weeks: visible improvement in firmness and overall skin quality.
- Results are cumulative and quiet — think 'skin ageing more slowly' rather than 'overnight transformation'.
Who it's for
- Skin from late 20s onwards — the age when natural NAD+ levels begin to decline.
- Tired, stressed, dull or reactive skin at any age.
- Anyone building a longevity-focused, regeneration-led routine (PDRN, peptides, growth factors).
- Sensitive skin — NAD+ is gentle and non-irritating for most users.
Pairings and cautions
- Pairs beautifully with PDRN, peptides, EGF, niacinamide, ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
- Safe alongside retinal — use retinal at night, NAD+ in the morning (or on off-nights).
- Avoid piling strong acids in the same routine — they can undermine the barrier NAD+ is trying to support.
- Store away from heat and light. NAD+ is delicate; airless or dark packaging keeps it stable.
Discover Litsy's NAD+ and regeneration-led ampoules — designed to layer with PDRN and peptides for a modern, energy-focused Korean routine.
