Associations d'actifs NAD+

What can NAD+ be combined with?

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is fundamentally a key coenzyme within our metabolism, involved in our body's energy production and DNA repair process, but it has also been the subject of increasing interest for its effects on the skin, specifically in terms of supporting cellular regeneration and strengthening skin defenses against signs of aging. However, in cosmetic products, NAD+ is often combined with other active ingredients to enhance its action on the skin. Let's explore together whether these combinations can truly optimize its effectiveness.

Combination No.1: NAD+ and Resveratrol, a duo to boost skin radiance?

This synergy is already available on the market and is believed to enhance skin radiance and boost skin protection against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Indeed, the resveratrol, an antioxidant polyphenol, activates sirtuins, NAD+ dependent enzymes, which are essential for regulating cellular aging and metabolism. However, it requires the coenzyme NAD+, which is also indispensable to sirtuins, to perform their functions. Therefore, one cannot optimize the beneficial effects of resveratrol without ensuring a good level of NAD+.

Combination No. 2: NAD+ and Coenzyme Q10: Cellular Energy and Skin Firmness?

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, thereby 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 better 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.

Combination No.3: NAD+ and Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) for Enhanced Hydration and Soothed Skin?

This combination would 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 restore the skin barrier by increasing the production of ceramides, which are essential for hydration. It is also recognized for its anti-inflammatory effects. Niacinamide would increase intracellular levels of NAD+, thus allowing cells to regenerate better and strengthen the skin barrier. This would reduce transepidermal water loss, thereby keeping the skin hydrated and protected against environmental aggressions.

The simultaneous presence of these two molecules in products is therefore strategic: the NAD+, incorporated directly into the products, could 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.

Combination No. 4: NAD+ and Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA), Enhanced Antioxidant and Metabolic Protection?

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. When combined with NAD+, it would improve mitochondrial health, strengthen the cells' ability to fight 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 neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative damage that accelerates skin aging. 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 aging related to oxidative stress and metabolic imbalances. However, there are currently no clinical studies validating the specific effects of this combination in topical use.

Combination No. 5: Shikimic Acid and NAD+: A Shield Against Cellular Aging?

Shikimic acid (SA), in synergy with NAD+, plays a key role in protecting the skin against the effects of aging caused by UV rays, while promoting cellular regeneration. Both molecules would activate SIRT1, an enzyme essential 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 aging by regenerating cells and regulating their stress response. The result: a brighter skin that is better protected against skin aggressions. However, no clinical study has yet confirmed the specific effects of this combination when used topically.

The key takeaway.

  • NAD+ can be combined with various active ingredients, such as resveratrol, CoQ10, niacinamide, alpha-lipoic acid, glutathione, and shikimic acid.

  • These combinations would promote cellular regeneration, hydration, firmness, and protection of the skin against free radicals.

  • Although the theoretical results are promising, no clinical study has yet confirmed the topical effectiveness of these synergies.

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