Is NAD⁺ Worth It In Skincare?
Honest guidance for dull, dry, dehydrated & mature skin
Wondering if NAD⁺ creams and serums can recharge cells, repair DNA, or reverse aging? Here’s what’s promised, what’s actually possible in topical cosmetics and smarter swaps to shop instead.
The Promise
NAD⁺ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is central to cellular energy and DNA maintenance. That’s why some K-Beauty products on the market these days are promising “recharged cells,” “DNA repair,” and “age reversal.” On paper, applying NAD⁺ sounds like the ultimate longevity hack.
The Reality
NAD⁺ is a poor fit for over-the-counter cosmetics in its native form. It’s highly unstable (sensitive to air, light and water) and too polar to efficiently cross the skin barrier. Without a validated delivery system, most NAD⁺ in jars degrades quickly and is unlikely to reach viable cells in meaningful amounts.
In short, impressive cellular biology does not automatically equal effective topical skincare.
Are These Cosmetic Claims or Drug Claims?
Taglines like “repairs DNA,” “reverses aging,” or “restores cellular energy” are drug claims. Not only are claims like this not allowed in regular cosmetics (including by Korea’s own MFDS ), skincare cannot claim to treat disease or alter physiological functions like a medicine.
Cosmetics can moisturise, brighten the look of tone, soften the appearance of lines, and support the barrier but curing, reversing, or repairing at the DNA level crosses into drug territory.
Bottom line: If a cream promises pharmaceutical-level outcomes, be skeptical. Very skeptical.
The Verdict on NAD+
NAD⁺ is biologically fascinating, but as a topical cosmetic, it’s not ready for prime time. Save your budget for ingredients with strong topical data and a clear cosmetic rationale.
Practical swap: Choose NAD pathway supporters like niacinamide. Not only is this ingredient well-studied, skin-compatible and capable of delivering real results, it is also endorsed in functional cosmetics by regulators such as Korea’s MFDS when used in functional amounts.
When using niacinamide to a funcitonal level (2-5%) you can expect visible improvements to texture, tone, and barrier support without the crazy promises.
What to Shop Instead
Bubble Tea Steam Cream
Deep, lasting comfort and glow for dry & dehydrated skin.
Not only does it include barrier-loving hydrators (beta-glucan, squalane, sodium hyaluronate) it also includes MFDS certified ingredients like adenosine (for wrinkle care) and niacinamide at functional levels to support the same NAD⁺ pathway upstream - without the instability issues.
Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask
This viral overnight jelly mask guarantees bouncy, cushioned #jellyskin.
Niacinamide, Adenosine, Ectoin and Panthenol support elasticity, even the look of tone and fortify the barrier while you sleep - evidence-led benefits that actually show up on skin.
Real Results: Real Reviews
Ali • Verified •
I’ve taken a while to get around to leaving a review for this product, but let me tell you: it’s my number one favourite product. I love to try new things, and moisturiser is a pretty easy one to switch around, but I have been through multiple jars of the Bubble Tea Steam Cream now and I have no interest in trying something else. The texture is unreal, my skin loves it, and it feels really luxurious to use, like a high end moisturiser. The glow it leaves on my skin is beautiful. Honestly, you can pry this out of my cold, dead hands. Obsessed.
*Individual results may vary.
FAQ: Is NAD⁺ Worth It In Skincare?
- Is NAD⁺ worth it in skincare?
- For most over-the-counter products, no. NAD⁺ is unstable and poorly absorbed through the skin. Proven actives like niacinamide offer reliable, visible benefits.
- What should I use instead of NAD⁺ creams?
- Look for niacinamide, panthenol, beta-glucan, squalane, adenosine, and hyaluronic acid to support barrier strength, radiance, and hydration.
- Are NAD⁺ product claims cosmetic or drug claims?
- Promises like “repairs DNA” or “reverses aging” resemble drug claims, which are not appropriate for cosmetics under frameworks such as Korea’s MFDS.