Is The Latest Wellness Trend NAD+ or FAD?
Touted by longevity experts, celebrated by biohackers, and whispered about in elite wellness circles, NAD+ is the molecule at the forefront of the beauty and wellness scene.Harper’s Bazaar Arabia investigates if the hype is deserved
In the chic confines of Dubai’s most exclusive clinics, a new breed of wellness is being administered. It’s not a radical new laser or a needle-based tweakment; it’s a clear, unassuming IV drip. Yet, within it lies a molecule being hailed as a revolution in regenerative health: NAD+. This coenzyme has become the cornerstone of a modern approach to ageing – one that prioritises cellular vitality from the inside out. But beyond the celebrity endorsements and sleek marketing, is NAD+ a genuine scientific breakthrough or simply the latest luxury wellness fixation?
What Exactly Is NAD+?
“NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every cell of the body. It plays a central role in energy production, DNA repair, and maintaining healthy cell function,” explains Mona Mirza, founder and CEO of Biolite Clinic. “Think of it as the spark plug that keeps the engine of your body running smoothly,” adds Dr. Asima Nasir, Medical Director at Orskin Aesthetics. “Without it, your body can’t turn food into energy or repair DNA effectively.” It’s not a new discovery; scientists have known about it for over a century. However, what is new is the understanding that our natural levels of NAD+ decline with age, which has sparked a wave of interest in the molecule’s potential to reverse the clock on
a cellular level.
“NAD+ is one of those molecules that really underpins how our bodies function – it fuels energy production, supports DNA repair, and even regulates how well our cells communicate,” Dr. Nasir explains. “The thing is, our levels decline with age, and that’s when you start noticing fatigue, slower recovery, and the visible signs of ageing in the skin.” This decline is a key hallmark of the ageing process, and the quest to replenish these diminishing levels is what has propelled NAD+ from biochemistry textbooks into clinic treatment rooms.
From Laboratory To Luxury
NAD+ has been a subject of serious metabolic study since the 1930s. However, its transition into the therapeutic mainstream is a far more recent development. “The growing popularity of NAD+ therapies comes from its potential to restore levels and support healthier ageing at a cellular level,” notes Mona. The past decade has seen an explosion in longevity research, with scientists like Dr. David Sinclair at Harvard publishing influential work on the role NAD+ plays in ageing. This, combined with a cultural shift towards proactive, holistic wellness, has created the perfect storm. Clinically, it’s used to help with chronic fatigue, brain fog, and recovery from burnout.Aesthetically, its role in cellular repair has made it a sought-after treatment for promoting skin health and a youthful glow from within.
A Holistic Approach To Beauty
The most compelling aspect of NAD+ is its ability to transcend categories. It doesn’t fit neatly into a traditional ‘aesthetics’ or ‘wellness’ box. As Dr. Patricia Oliveira, a dermatologist at Seline Clinic, explains, “What makes NAD+ so interesting is that it bridges the gap between
aesthetics and longevity. Patients aren’t just asking for treatments to smooth wrinkles – they want to feel sharper, sleep better, recover faster, and age in a way that feels sustainable. NAD+ taps into that mindset because it works at a cellular level. Whether it’s delivered via drips, oral supplements, or cutting-edge skincare, it’s become one of the most talked-about tools in regenerative medicine, and I think we’re only just scratching the surface of its potential.”
Dr. Hanieh Maleki at Minx Aesthetics has seen firsthand the impact on her patients. “From a clinical perspective, NAD+ infusions have been a real breakthrough for patients who feel run down, jet-lagged, or burnt out. Because it’s delivered straight into the bloodstream, the results can be felt quite quickly – people often describe a clarity of mind and improved energy within days. It’s not a tweakment in the same way filler or Botox is, but it’s about creating a healthier foundation, and that’s why we see patients combining NAD+ drips with aesthetic treatments for better overall outcomes.”
IV Drips, Supplements, And Skincare
One thing that makes NAD+ so popular is its accessibility. If you’re after the most direct and potent results, IV infusions remain the gold standard. Or, you can easily integrate it into your daily routine. High-quality supplements and even topical skincare serums are emerging, offering a more gradual, maintenance-focused approach. Though Mona adds a note of caution: “Topical formulations are increasingly used in skincare for anti-ageing, though evidence for efficacy through the skin remains limited.” While the bioavailability of these methods differs from an IV, they offer a practical way to support NAD+ levels consistently.
Research, Safety, And Expectations
NAD+’s growing popularity brings a whole host of questions. Is it safe? Who can use it? What are the risks? “NAD+ itself has been extensively studied for decades – we know it’s essential for healthy cell function and energy production,” confirms Dr. Oliveira. “What’s still evolving is the research on therapeutic use of NAD+ through infusions and supplements in humans over the long term.” Dr. Nasir adds, “A lot of the strongest evidence so far comes from animal studies rather than humans, so while the early signs are exciting, it’s not a magic bullet. Still, many users swear by the subtle improvements they notice in their day-to-day wellbeing.” As Mona cautions, “While many people report feeling benefits such as improved energy and mental focus, results vary, and more large-scale clinical trials are needed to fully establish its role in long-term health and longevity.”
So, Is It Safe?
The consensus among medical professionals is a qualified yes. “Most people tolerate NAD+ therapy very well,” says Dr. Oliveira. “If the drip is administered too quickly, some may experience temporary effects such as mild nausea, chest tightness, or lightheadedness. These usually pass quickly and can be resolved by slowing the infusion rate,” she advises. This underscores a paramount piece of guidance: NAD+ therapy, particularly intravenously, should only be administered by a trained practitioner in a clinical setting. “The beauty of NAD+ is that it can be tailored to the individual, so with professional guidance, most people can find a way to incorporate it safely.”
The Takeaway Is Clear:
NAD+ requires patience, not just a payment. But for those willing to invest, it offers something far beyond a quick fix – a sustainable, cellular-level upgrade. This is the new standard of care: where aesthetics meets longevity. It’s no longer about simply looking younger, but functioning optimally, proving that the most profound form of beauty truly does begin from within.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia October 2025 Issue.