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Updated April 2026 · about a 7 minute read
The biotech ingredient everyone is asking about, minus the hype.
The short answer
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found naturally in every cell in your body, central to how cells make energy. In skincare it is a biotech ingredient often paired with PDRN and hyaluronic acid in serums you apply to support the look of hydrated, radiant skin. Here is the honest guide. Browse PDRN serums.
If you have been following skincare trends, you have probably noticed NAD+ popping up everywhere, from longevity clinics to your Instagram feed. But what is NAD+ for skin, and does it live up to the hype? Let us break it down without the lofty claims. If you want to start with the classic partner ingredient, the Rejuva Healer S NAD+ serum pairs NAD+ with PDRN and HA in one bottle.
What is NAD+?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every living cell. Think of it as part of your cells energy machinery: it is involved in cellular metabolism, communication and other everyday processes. It is a naturally occurring molecule, which is part of why it is of interest in both wellness and skincare. Like many things, the body's NAD+ levels are generally understood to decline with age.
Why NAD+ is having a moment in skincare
NAD+ has been popular in the longevity space for years, and now it is appearing in skincare you apply, usually alongside other biotech ingredients like PDRN and hyaluronic acid. As a cosmetic ingredient used on the surface of your skin, it is valued for slotting into a modern, science forward routine focused on the appearance of hydrated, fresh, radiant looking skin.
Important and honest caveat: cosmetics used on the surface of the skin in Australia cannot claim to repair DNA, reverse ageing or boost collagen. Those are therapeutic claims, and a serum is not a medicine. What a well formulated NAD+ serum can do is support how your skin looks and feels as part of a consistent routine.
A serum is not a medicine, but the right one can support how your skin looks and feels every day.
How NAD+ compares to ingredients you already know
| Ingredient | Best known for | Where NAD+ fits |
|---|---|---|
| Retinol | Cell turnover, the look of firmness | NAD+ is gentle and non irritating, a nice partner for people who find retinol harsh. |
| Vitamin C | Antioxidant, brightening | NAD+ layers happily alongside antioxidant routines. |
| Hyaluronic acid | Hydration, plumping | NAD+ pairs well with HA for a hydrated, comfortable feel. |
| PDRN (salmon DNA) | Gentle, supports the look of even skin | The classic NAD+ partner, the two are often formulated together. |
What people love about NAD+ skincare (cosmetically)
- Supports the look of hydrated, radiant, even toned skin
- Gentle and non stinging, suits most skin types, including sensitive feeling skin
- Layers easily with the rest of your routine
- Can be used all year round, including summer
How to use NAD+ in your routine
A serum you apply (daily): smooth it on after cleansing, before moisturiser. Follow with SPF in the morning or your night cream in the evening. Great for everyday maintenance.
With a gentle at home skin tool: a NAD+ serum you apply can also be used alongside a gentle at home skin tool (a roller, stamp or pen), or applied by a therapist during a professional session. Keep at home use gentle; deeper sessions belong in a clinic.
The NAD+, PDRN and HA trio
The reason these three appear together so often is that they each bring something different to a routine: NAD+ is the biotech energiser, PDRN (salmon DNA) is the gentle hydrator that supports the look of even skin, and hyaluronic acid locks in moisture for a plump finish. Our Rejuva Healer S brings all three together in one serum you apply, and the biotech skin regeneration bundle pairs the serum with the rest of a considered routine.
What to realistically expect
Like most gentle actives, NAD+ skincare is about consistency. Most people notice their skin looking more hydrated and radiant over a few weeks of regular use, with a smoother, more even looking finish developing gradually. It is a supportive, comfortable ingredient, not an overnight miracle, and not a substitute for SPF, sleep or professional advice where it is needed.
Is NAD+ skincare gentle?
NAD+ is a naturally occurring molecule, generally well tolerated and non stinging, which is part of its appeal versus stronger actives. As with any new product, patch test first. Note that when NAD+ is combined with PDRN (salmon DNA), the formula is not suitable for those with fish allergies and is not vegan.
CureNex Salmon DNA & Peptide Sheet Masks, Pack of 5
A gentle, hydrating way to layer salmon DNA and peptides, lovely on its own or with your at home skin tool.
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Frequently asked questions
What is NAD+ in skincare?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found naturally in skin cells. As a cosmetic ingredient in serums you apply, it is valued for supporting the appearance of hydrated, radiant, even looking skin, and it pairs well with PDRN and hyaluronic acid.
Can I use NAD+ with retinol?
Yes. NAD+ is gentle and layers well with most routines, many people use NAD+ in the morning and retinol at night.
How is NAD+ different from niacinamide?
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a precursor the body can convert toward NAD+. A NAD+ serum supplies the coenzyme more directly. Both are gentle, well tolerated ingredients.
Can I use NAD+ skincare at home?
Yes, NAD+ serums you apply are made for daily home use. They can also be paired with a gentle at home skin tool or applied by a professional during a session.
Disclaimer: these are cosmetics, not therapeutic goods, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. An at home skin tool should be used gently. Always patch test; formulas containing PDRN are not suitable for those with fish allergies.
