Do NMN Supplements Help With Ageing? Dermatologists Break It Down

In an age of celebrity-driven health trends, questions around what truly works are more important than ever. The latest supplement to go viral, NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide), got its moment in the spotlight after actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu endorsed it for its alleged anti-ageing benefits. However, the endorsement was quickly called out by liver specialist Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, a.k.a. The Liver Doc, who labelled her claims "misleading and unscientific."

So, does NMN really work? Let's take a closer look at the science behind it and what dermatologists have to say.

What is the NMN supplement?

According to medical reports, NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) is a naturally occurring molecule, often described as a "raw material" the body uses to create NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide). NAD+ is essential for a variety of bodily functions like metabolism, energy production, and cell repair.

NMN is classified as a nucleotide, a type of molecule that also forms the building blocks of DNA. As you age, levels of NAD+ decline, which is why NMN supplements are being marketed as anti-ageing solutions.

Can NMN really fight ageing?

Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) has recently become popular for its anti-ageing and energy-enhancing properties, largely based on its ability to increase the level of NAD⁺ — a molecule key to cellular metabolism, DNA repair, and overall energy.

While intravenous NAD⁺ therapies are under clinical research in several countries, the oral absorption of NAD⁺ has limitations.

Dr Shachi Jain, MBBS, MD, Dermatologist, explains, "NMN, being a direct NAD⁺ precursor, seems to have improved gut stability as well as absorption, thus being more feasible for oral supplementation — albeit research is very much in infancy stages."

However, she also cautions, "Although these supplements are promising, current human evidence regarding their long-term efficacy and safety is still limited and inconclusive. These are not miracles or quick fixes."

For those hoping to achieve flawless, youthful skin via a capsule, Dr Jain suggests: "As a dermatologist, I am always keen to point out that no supplement can take the place of the foundational pillars of skin and overall health: a balanced diet, regular sleep, exercise, and stress management. These are still the most evidence-based and sustainable means of promoting graceful ageing  from the inside out.
Stronger clinical trials must be conducted before NMN may be safely recommended as a routine part of wellness. In the meantime, healthy habits still prevail."

Further shedding light on NMN's role as an anti-ageing supplement, Chennai-based dermatologist Dr Bansari Davda explains, “NAD+ is vital for cellular repair and skin health, and early studies suggest NMN may help enhance mitochondrial function and reduce signs of ageing. However, while animal research is promising, human data remains limited and inconsistent."

NMN is not a miracle anti-ageing pill, and more large-scale clinical trials are needed. It may support overall skin vitality, but it’s not essential for everyone. A balanced lifestyle—sun protection, hydration, and nutrition—remains the most scientifically backed approach to healthy, youthful skin," he concludes.

So, while NMN supplements may offer some benefits through their effect on NAD⁺ levels, dermatologists stress that more rigorous and large-scale clinical trials are needed to back the anti-ageing claims. Until then, the age-old advice of healthy living still reigns supreme.

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