Tag: Transdermal delivery

By middle age, NAD+ levels can decline by up to 50%, a drop associated with age-related symptoms like fatigue and slower metabolism. This has driven interest in replenishing NAD+ through both traditional supplements and newer transdermal patches.

As people age, NAD+ levels decline by approximately 50% every 20 years, impacting cellular energy and repair. NAD patches aim to replenish these levels, but understanding the timeline for experiencing their effects is key to managing expectations and achieving optimal results.

Scientific research suggests that oral NAD+ supplements, including precursors like NMN and NR, suffer from poor bioavailability, with much of the compound being broken down by the digestive system. This raises the question of whether an alternative delivery method, such as a transdermal NAD patch, can work better than pills by bypassing metabolic degradation.

Despite manufacturers' claims, vitamin B12 is a large, water-soluble molecule, which presents a significant challenge for effective transdermal absorption through the skin. So, are B12 patches any good, or are they just a convenient but ineffective marketing fad?

According to the National Institutes of Health, the vast majority of dietary potassium (about 90%) is absorbed in the small intestine, not through the skin. The answer to whether potassium can be effectively absorbed through the skin is generally no, based on how the body's digestive and cellular systems are designed to process this essential mineral.

NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, with some studies showing a drop of up to 50% by midlife, contributing to visible skin aging. This decline has sparked immense interest in topical treatments, but a crucial question remains: can NAD be absorbed through the skin effectively?

According to manufacturers, most vitamin patches are designed to release their contents over a period of 8 to 24 hours, but noticeable effects can vary widely based on the individual and the vitamin type. While the transdermal delivery system bypasses the digestive tract, the overall time to experience benefits depends on several factors, including the specific nutrient, individual absorption, and consistency of use.

While some commercial products claim easy absorption, science shows the skin is an effective barrier, making passive transdermal absorption of vitamin B12 challenging. However, novel technologies are making it possible.

While our skin naturally synthesizes vitamin D from sunlight, the topical application of vitamin D and its synthetic analogs is a well-established treatment for certain skin conditions. This approach is particularly effective for managing inflammatory disorders like psoriasis, offering targeted anti-inflammatory and cell-regulating benefits directly to the skin.

The skin, our body's largest organ, is a powerful barrier designed to protect us from environmental threats, yet specific nutrients can be absorbed through it to provide localized benefits. Understanding **what vitamins can pass through the skin** is crucial for anyone looking to optimize their skincare regimen and nutritional health.