With what can NAD+ be combined?

This combination exists on the market and appears to enhance skin elasticity and increase its firmness. The coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) plays a crucial role in the production of ATP in the mitochondria, a process supported by NAD+. Together, these two compounds would increase the energy available for skin cells, thus promoting their regeneration and firmness. The mitochondria produce ATP, the primary energy source for cells, through biochemical cycles activated by NAD+ and CoQ10. Therefore, an increased energy production would allow cells to repair themselves more effectively and maintain a firmer structure, thus helping to prevent skin sagging. However, at present, no clinical study has yet validated the specific effects of this combination.

This combination is believed to have beneficial effects on the skin, by strengthening the skin barrier, improving hydration, reducing redness, and providing rapid effects. Vitamin B3, or niacinamide, stimulates the production of NAD+ in cells and helps to restore the skin barrier by increasing the production of ceramides, which are essential for hydration. It is also recognised for its anti-inflammatory effects. Niacinamide is thought to increase intracellular levels of NAD+, thus enabling cells to regenerate more effectively and to strengthen the skin barrier. This would reduce transepidermal water loss, thereby keeping the skin hydrated and protected against environmental aggressors.

The simultaneous presence of these two molecules in products is therefore strategic: the NAD+, incorporated directly into the products, would provide immediate effects, while vitamin B3 would stimulate the production of NAD+ in the skin over the long term. However, it should be noted that no clinical research has yet demonstrated conclusive results regarding the effectiveness of this combination.

This combination would protect the skin from oxidative damage, enhance radiance and firmness, and promote the regulation of lipid metabolism. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant capable of regenerating other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E. In conjunction with NAD+, it would improve mitochondrial health, strengthen the cells' ability to combat free radicals, and regulate cellular energy via the activation of the sirtuin-1 protein (SIRT1). This regulation by SIRT1 would also activate AMPK, a key enzyme in managing the production and breakdown of lipids, thus contributing to a better metabolic balance and the reduction of intracellular lipids.

ALA and NAD+ would neutralise free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative damage that accelerates skin ageing. They would also improve mitochondrial function, increasing the energy efficiency of cells. Through the activation of SIRT1 and AMPK, ALA would not only promote a youthful and radiant appearance, but also play a role in lipid management and the prevention of harmful fat accumulation for skin and metabolic health. This would contribute to reducing visible signs of fatigue and the effects of ageing related to oxidative stress and metabolic imbalances. However, there are currently no clinical studies validating the specific effects of this combination in topical use.

Shikimic acid (SA), in synergy with NAD+, is believed to play a key role in protecting the skin against the effects of ageing caused by UV rays, while promoting cellular regeneration. Both molecules would activate SIRT1, an enzyme crucial for regulating cellular senescence and promoting cell longevity. A study conducted on human skin cells demonstrated that SA, combined with NAD+, effectively reduces signs of ageing by regenerating cells and regulating their stress response. The result: a brighter skin that is better protected against skin damage. However, no clinical study has yet confirmed the specific effects of this combination when used topically.