More and more, our mindsets are shifting from anti-aging to
healthy aging After all, getting older is inevitable, so why not embrace the process rather than “fight” it with all sorts of expensive creams and serums? When it comes to skincare, certain lifestyle habits and high-quality products can help you maintain a healthy, youthful appearance -- and feel your absolute best -- as you age.
Every day, we face obstacles to aging optimally. Stress, poor diet, pollution, excess sun exposure: All of these things can lead to free radical generation - and ultimately cellular damage - in our bodies. And this, of course, impacts our skin, contributing to dull and dry texture, fine lines, wrinkles and a complexion that simply appears
older.
Although our modern lifestyles may contribute to signs of aging and less-than-vibrant skin, with advancements in technology and medicine, increasingly potent and effective skincare products are being developed. While nature has always provided incredible ingredients, harnessing them takes a lot of research and know-how.
One relative newcomer to the skincare world is nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), a co-enzyme in cells that facilitates
DNA repair, gives cells the energy they need to function properly, and supports cellular nutrition. While research is ongoing, plenty of data has shown powerful anti-aging effects, elevating this ingredient in skincare solutions.
Here, dermatologists discuss the benefits of NAD, how it works, and why you should consider adding it to your skincare routine.
When and why fine lines and wrinkles appear
“As we age, our skin undergoes several changes that contribute to fine lines and wrinkles; the two main factors are intrinsic and extrinsic aging,” says
Dr. Allison Leer, board certified dermatologist in Dallas, Texas, and co-founder at Unity Skincare.
Leer explains that intrinsic aging is the natural aging process, while extrinsic aging is caused by external factors such as sun exposure, pollution, smoking and lifestyle choices.
“Extrinsic factors are ones you can control, which is what beauty products focus on,” she says.
With natural aging, the skin undergoes changes due to a decline in collagen and elastin production, decreased moisture retention and environmental factors, according to Hamdan Abdullah Hamed, a dermatologist and trichologist with
Power Your Curls, in the United Arab Emirates.
Collagen helps keep your skin firm and full, while elastin encourages elasticity so that your skin snaps back when stretched or pinched. When they start to decline, that’s when fine lines and wrinkles make an appearance, typically starting in your mid-20s.
Lifestyle factors that support healthy skin as you age
One of the best ways to keep your skin looking youthful is by preventing fine lines and wrinkles in the first place, Dr. Rekha Singh, a dermatologist with
Olivia Skin & Hair Clinic. “This can be done through a combination of lifestyle changes,” she says, including:
- Avoiding excessive sun exposure
- Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and omega-3 fatty acids
- Drinking enough water
- Getting enough sleep
- Exercising regularly
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
- Using sunscreen every day (even on cloudy days) of at least SPF 30
- Moisturizing skin every day
- Using anti-aging products with ingredients like NAD
How NAD plays a role in skin aging
Put simply, NAD is an essential cellular compound that plays a significant role in many biochemical processes within the body. “As we age, our body's ability to produce NAD decreases, meaning our cells don’t have access to the 'energy fuel' they need,” explains Singh. “This can lead to a decrease in collagen production which can ultimately cause wrinkles and fine lines,” she says.
“NAD has gained attention in the beauty industry for its potential benefits in addressing signs of aging; it is believed to support cellular metabolism, promote DNA repair and enhance skin barrier function,” says Hamed. He adds that
products containing NAD may help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and enhance overall skin health.
†
Research shows that NAD can protect the skin from
sun exposure and
oxidative cell damage, contributing to skin aging. NAD also supports
collagen formation, leading to more plump and firm skin.
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NAD for anti aging: What to look for in a product
When looking for a product with NAD, the experts suggest finding one with complementary anti-aging ingredients such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and peptides used to improve skin elasticity.
Quality and reputation are also vital, according to Leer. “Choose products from reputable brands known for their commitment to quality and efficacy. Look for products backed by research or dermatologist recommendations,” she says.
The concentration of NAD is also a factor to consider, according to Leer. “Higher concentrations may potentially have more noticeable effects, but it's essential to follow the recommended usage guidelines and consult a dermatologist in case of any concerns."
One excellent choice is
Codeage NAD+ Nourishing Face Cream - Liposomal NAD+ Complex or their
serum. This nourishing product contains hyaluronic acid (HLA), collagen and plant extracts packed into a resveratrol facial cream. It also contains skin-healing vitamins C and E, moisturizing shea butter, aloe vera and sweet almond oil, nutrient-rich seaweed and sesame seed extracts, rosemary and hydrating coconut fruit juice.
Additionally, Codeage products are manufactured in the U.S. in Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) facilities. Their innovative products are formulated with new ingredients using ancient techniques and modern approaches without animal testing or parabens.
Add NAD to your overall healthy skincare routine
NAD is a powerful ingredient in fighting signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. When you're looking for a product containing NAD, look out for other active ingredients that can help target specific skin issues and boost collagen production, such as Codeage’s NAD+ Cream and Serum.
“By following this advice and making some lifestyle changes, like avoiding excessive sun exposure and drinking enough water, you can help keep your skin youthful and healthy,” says Singh.
†These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.
