Can I use Red Light Therapy alongside NAD+?

What is NAD+?

NAD+, formally known as Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, is a co-enzyme naturally found in the body, which depletes as we age. This molecule “supports and facilitates enzymatic reactions within the body”, which boosts cellular energy production and DNA repair, explains Advanced Facialist, Dr. Mariam Abbas.

What are the benefits of NAD+?

NAD+ takes numerous forms, including NAD+ IV drips, NAD+ supplements, and topical NAD+ infused skincare. NAD+ offers several benefits, including “healthy ageing.” Abbas shares: “NAD+ supports mitochondrial function and cellular signaling, which are essential for efficient metabolic processes, and the healthy function of tissues and organs.”  However, Abbas suggests combining NAD+ with NAD+ precursors, which are molecules that convert into NAD+ and support biological functions and improve efficiency. 

In terms of skincare support, NAD+ bolsters the skin barrier “by helping to reduce trans-epidermal water loss and supporting ceramide synthesis, which improves hydration and resilience”, explains Abbas. NAD+ also boasts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help combat blemish-prone skin, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and other inflammatory-related skincare concerns.

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red Light Therapy (RLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific light wavelengths, including red, infrared, and deep light, to address beauty and wellness concerns. Abbas details: “The light energy is absorbed by skin cells and helps to support and improve cellular function. RLT is also known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties.”

Medical-grade red light therapy devices are often used in professional clinics and are more intense than at-home tools. However, Project E Beauty offers a variety of high-quality red light therapy devices safe for home use, such as Lumalux Pro Face Mask and LumaLux Neck, red light therapy panels, including the Alora Age Renewal LED Light Therapy Panel, and the Lumalux Dome for full-body use.

What are the benefits of RLT?

There are numerous red light therapy benefits. Abbas spotlights its ability to “increase ATP levels in cells and stimulating collagen production alongside reducing inflammation”, as the primary function, which supports several biological processes. 

In terms of skincare, RLT boosts collagen production, treats blemish-prone skin, brightens the complexion, reduces inflammation and signs of ageing. Red light therapy benefits also include mental health support, wound healing, pain relief, and improved sleep.

Who should avoid NAD+?

Although NAD+ is generally considered safe, there are some exceptions. As NAD+ levels naturally decline in the body as we age, young individuals with healthy NAD+ levels do not require this booster. 

Abbas also advises those who are pregnant, nursing, or have medical concerns, to avoid NAD+. She explains: “NAD+ supports cellular energy production and repair, which may theoretically enhance cellular proliferation in tumor cells in individuals with active cancer. NAD+ can also stimulate cellular metabolic activity, therefore individuals with compromised liver or kidney function should avoid NAD+ supplementation unless under medical supervision.”

What are the benefits of using Red Light Therapy with NAD+?

NAD+ and RLT are effective as separate entities, as they both “boost cellular energy and mitochondrial function”, says Abbas. Yet, combining NAD+ supplements and red light therapy may “compound benefits for tissue repair.” 

To target skincare concerns, NAD+ infused skincare combined with red light therapy devices such as Alora, Dome, LumaLux Neck or Lumalux Pro Face Mask may improve skin tone, texture and luminosity. While NAD+ IV alongside Project E Beauty’s Alora or Dome could be an effective treatment to improve mood, mental clarity, wellbeing, as well as skincare concerns. However, NAD+ and RLT should not be considered a replacement for medical treatments.

Are there any side effects to using RLT and NAD+?

RLT or NAD+ are considered safe treatments. However, Abbas warns that NAD+ can cause patients to feel light-headed, dizzy, or nauseous. Abbas emphasizes that NAD+ IV treatments must be carried out by a trained professional. 

Red Light Therapy can be done in clinic or with an at home device such as Project E Beauty’s Alora, Dome, LumaLux Neck or Lumalux Pro Face Mask.  It is a safe and non-invasive treatment for most, but those with existing skin conditions should consult with their healthcare provider before use.

How often should you use RLT and NAD+, and for how long?

While red light therapy with NAD+ IV therapy is safe to use, it is important not to overdo your treatments. Abbas advises: “The frequency of use will depend on the form of NAD+ supplements, dosage, as well as the type and specifications of the red-light therapy device".

At-home red light therapy devices can be quicker than NAD+ IV treatments, and used more frequently. For example, the Alora boasts an eight-minute run-time and can be used three to five times a week, while the multi-functional Dome can be used for 10 minutes per treatment area, and for a maximum of 30 minutes per day.

It is paramount you speak with a professional before taking NAD+ therapy, RLT, or combining NAD+ supplements and red light therapy.

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Which is better: RLT or NAD+?

While some patients recognize noticeable differences before and after NAD+ IV treatments in terms of mental clarity, energy levels, and daily functions, it is considered an invasive therapy, which may deter some patients. Though NAD+ benefits are “promising”, Abbas recommends RLT because it has “more clinical evidence to support its claims for tissue repair, cellular function and health benefits.”

Final thoughts

While NAD+ and RLT treatments both target cellular health, albeit in different ways, more research is needed on the efficacy of this dual approach to biohacking.