Discover how this revolutionary ingredient can rejuvenate your skin cells from within.
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In the ever-evolving skincare industry, one particularly innovative ingredient is making waves: Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), a derivative of vitamin B3. Though commonly known for its role in boosting NAD+ levels within the body via supplementation, NR is now being recognised for its potential in skincare. But what exactly is NR, and how does it differ from other skincare ingredients?
What is NR?
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is a unique form of vitamin B3 that plays a pivotal role in cellular health. As a precursor to our cellular power packs Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+), NR is critical in boosting NAD+ levels in the body.
Why is NAD+ important?
NAD+ is a coenzyme found in all living cells and is essential for various biological processes, including energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cell signalling. On a deeper level, NAD+ maintains mitochondrial health within our skin cells. Mitochondria, often referred to as the powerhouses of the cell, are responsible for generating the energy required for all of our cellular functions. As we age, mitochondrial function tends to decline, leading to decreased cellular energy, slower skin repair, and the visible signs of ageing. So by enhancing NAD+ levels, NR has the unique ability to support cellular regeneration and energy production, making it a highly sought-after ingredient in supplements, and very recently, in skincare products.
Discover more about the mighty mitochondria in our deep-dive blog!
The Role of NAD+ in Skin Health
As we celebrate more birthdays and become wiser, our NAD+ levels naturally decline, leading to various signs of ageing such as reduced skin elasticity, inflammation, increased fine lines, and a weakened skin barrier. NAD+ is therefore crucial for maintaining the health and vitality of our skin cells by enhancing the skin's ability to repair itself, perform all its functions more efficiently and fight off environmental stressors. However, maintaining optimal NAD+ levels is challenging as we mature, which is where NR comes into play.
How NR Boosts NAD+ Levels in the Skin
NR is a precursor to NAD+, meaning it is converted into NAD+ within the body. The benefits of oral NR supplementation has been widely studied in human clinical trials. NR is a very small molecule and when applied topically as a skincare ingredient, is able to penetrate the skin's barrier and capable of working at a cellular level to increase NAD+ production. This increase in NAD+ helps rejuvenate skin cells, promoting a youthful and radiant complexion.
The Benefits of NR in Skincare
- Enhances Skin Vitality and Youthfulness: NR's primary function in skincare is to boost NAD+ levels, which in turn, improves cellular energy production. This results in enhanced skin vitality, making the skin look more youthful and radiant. With higher NAD+ levels, skin cells can more effectively repair damage, maintain their integrity as well as their overall longevity.
- Supports Skin Barrier Function: The skin barrier is vital for protecting the skin from environmental damage, maintaining hydration, skin lipids and ceramides and preventing the penetration of harmful substances. NR helps strengthen the skin barrier by promoting NAD+ production, which supports the overall health and resilience of skin cells. A stronger skin barrier means better protection against free radical damage from pollutants, UV radiation, and other external stressors.
- Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles: By bolstering the skin's natural repair processes, NR can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. NAD+ plays a critical role in DNA repair, skin metabolism and cellular regeneration, which are essential for maintaining smooth, firm and healthy skin. Regular use of NR-infused skincare products can lead to a noticeable improvement in skin texture and a reduction in the visible signs of ageing.
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How NR may be Used in Skincare Products
Within the skincare industry, NR is gradually becoming incorporated into serums, facial masks, and other formulations designed to address multiple skin concerns. These products often combine NR with other powerful ingredients such as antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to deliver a multifaceted approach to boosting the vitality of the skin. NR's ability to enhance NAD+ levels make it a valuable addition to the skincare arena, helping to improve skin texture, firmness, and overall health.
Combining NR with Other Skincare Ingredients
To maximise the benefits of NR, it should be combined with various other skincare ingredients. For instance:
- Antioxidants: Pairing NR with antioxidants like vitamin C derivatives, astaxanthin and resveratrol can help neutralise free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and protect the skin from environmental damage.
- Peptides: Combining NR with bioactive peptides such as palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl) can synergistically enhance collagen production, leading to firmer and smoother skin.
- Hyaluronic Acid: NR combined with hyaluronic acid can boost epidermal hydration, improve texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Retinoids: Incorporating NR with retinoids such as encapsulated retinol or hydroxy pinacolone retinoate can enhance skin renewal processes, leading to smoother, more radiant skin over time.
The Future of NR in Skincare
As the skincare industry continues to innovate, NR is set to become a cornerstone ingredient in anti-ageing and skin health products. Its ability to boost NAD+ levels and support cellular health makes it a powerful tool to preserving the longevity and healthspan of our skin cells. As more research emerges, the potential applications of NR in skincare will likely expand, offering even more targeted and effective solutions for maintaining youthful, healthy skin.
