Decapeptide-12 vs NAD+
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & Cosmetic
Decapeptide-12Anti-Aging & Longevity
NAD+- Summary
- Decapeptide-12 is a synthetic 10-amino acid peptide developed for skin brightening and depigmentation. It selectively inhibits tyrosinase activity and downstream melanogenesis pathways, reducing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone without the irritation associated with hydroquinone.
- NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in all living cells that declines dramatically with age. It is critical for energy metabolism, DNA repair, and sirtuin activation. IV and subcutaneous NAD+ supplementation is used in anti-aging protocols and addiction recovery programs.
- Half-Life
- Not applicable (topical)
- Varies by route; IV provides direct cellular delivery
- Admin Route
- Topical
- IV, SubQ, Oral
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 5 ppm (0.0005%) concentration
- 500–1000 mg
- Frequency
- Twice daily (AM and PM)
- Daily for 4–10 days (loading), then monthly maintenance
- Key Benefits
- Reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots
- Evens skin tone and improves radiance
- Inhibits post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Well-tolerated alternative to hydroquinone
- Effective for melasma and age spots
- Non-cytotoxic to melanocytes
- Restored cellular energy production (ATP)
- Sirtuin activation for longevity and metabolic regulation
- Enhanced DNA repair capacity
- Improved mitochondrial function and biogenesis
- Cognitive clarity and mental energy
- Reduced inflammation
- Addiction withdrawal support (opioids, alcohol, benzodiazepines)
- Improved sleep quality
- Enhanced athletic endurance
- Side Effects
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare mild irritation or sensitivity in some skin types
- Results may take several weeks to become visible
- Flushing and warmth during IV infusion
- Nausea during rapid IV administration
- Chest tightness (from rapid infusion — slow the rate)
- Injection site irritation (subcutaneous)
- +1 more
- Stacks With
- —
- —