What Is NAD+ Therapy? Real Benefits, Uses & What to Expect

NAD+ therapy is one of the most talked-about wellness treatments in aesthetics right now. Here's an honest, evidence-informed look at what it actually is and what it can and can't do.

NAD+ therapy has become one of the most searched-about treatments in the wellness and regenerative space — and also one of the most misunderstood. At KatiFACE, we believe in supporting the body's own systems thoughtfully, so here's a calm, honest look at what NAD+ therapy actually is, what the current evidence suggests, and who it may (and may not) suit.

What is NAD+ therapy?

NAD+ therapy is the administration of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide — a coenzyme found in every living cell — usually by IV infusion or injection, to help replenish levels that naturally decline with age. It is used to support cellular energy production and metabolic function.

NAD+ is essential to how your cells convert nutrients into usable energy and how they carry out repair processes. Levels of NAD+ are understood to decrease as we get older, which is part of why it has attracted so much interest in the wellness and regenerative category.

How is NAD+ delivered?

NAD+ is most commonly given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, but it may also be offered as subcutaneous injections or, less effectively, oral precursors. IV delivery bypasses the digestive system so more of the molecule reaches the bloodstream directly.

IV infusions are typically administered slowly over 1–3 hours, because a fast drip can feel uncomfortable (more on that below).

What are the real benefits of NAD+ therapy?

The most consistently reported benefits are improved energy, mental clarity, and a sense of recovery — though it is important to understand that robust, large-scale human research is still limited. Much of the enthusiasm is based on early studies, mechanistic reasoning, and patient-reported experience.

Commonly described benefits include:

• Energy and reduced fatigue — because NAD+ is central to cellular energy (ATP) production.
• Mental clarity and focus — many people report a "clearer" feeling, though this is subjective.
• Recovery support — for physical exertion, jet lag, or periods of high stress.
• Healthy aging support — NAD+ is involved in DNA repair and cellular maintenance pathways.

It is honest to say that NAD+ therapy is not a cure, an anti-aging guarantee, or a replacement for foundational health habits. Sleep, nutrition, movement, and sun protection remain the true bedrock of both wellness and skin health. Individual results vary, and NAD+ is best thought of as one supportive tool within a broader plan.

Does NAD+ therapy help the skin?

Because NAD+ supports cellular repair and healthy aging processes, some people are drawn to it as part of a whole-body approach to looking and feeling well. That said, visible skin improvements come far more reliably from targeted treatments and a consistent medical-grade skincare routine.

At KatiFACE we take a full-face, full-person view: internal wellness and external treatments work best together, not in place of one another.

What does NAD+ therapy feel like?

During an IV infusion, some people experience a sensation of chest tightness, flushing, or mild nausea if the drip runs too quickly. Slowing the infusion almost always resolves this.

This is why NAD+ IVs are administered slowly and monitored. It is not usually painful, but it is a longer appointment than a standard vitamin drip. A proper intake and consultation beforehand is essential to confirm suitability.

Who is (and isn't) a good candidate?

NAD+ therapy may suit generally healthy adults looking for energy, recovery, or healthy-aging support who have realistic expectations. It is not appropriate for everyone.

NAD+ therapy is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for people with certain medical conditions, without physician clearance. A thorough health review is a non-negotiable first step. If you have chronic health concerns, always discuss NAD+ with your family doctor as well.

How often do you need NAD+ therapy?

Protocols vary widely — some people start with a short series of sessions close together, then move to periodic maintenance. There is no single evidence-based schedule.

Because protocols are individual, the right cadence should be decided with a clinician based on your goals, health history, and how you respond. At our Yorkville clinic we prefer to start conservatively and adjust, rather than commit anyone to an aggressive package up front. You can book a consultation to discuss whether NAD+ fits your wellness goals.

The KatiFACE view on NAD+

We approach NAD+ the way we approach everything: thoughtfully and without hype. It can be a genuinely supportive addition to a well-rounded wellness plan for the right person, but it is not magic, and it works best alongside good fundamentals and, where relevant, targeted aesthetic treatments. Aging is something we support and respect — not something we chase away with a single infusion.