Beauty

NAD+ Drips and Peptides: Could Biohacking Change Anti-Ageing?

Published

4 hours ago

12 August 2026

Photo: Pinterest

Anti-ageing has traditionally focused on the skin, with sunscreen, retinoids, injectables, lasers and other cosmetic treatments used to address visible signs of ageing. Now, the conversation is moving towards treatments that claim to influence ageing from inside the body.

NAD+ drips and peptide therapies have become part of the growing longevity and biohacking market, with clinics promoting them for energy, recovery, metabolism and healthy ageing. Celebrity and influencer interest has also brought these treatments to a wider audience.

The science, however, is more complicated than the marketing.

Why NAD+ Is Getting Attention

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Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, or NAD+, is a coenzyme found throughout the body. It plays a role in energy production, cellular signalling and DNA repair. NAD+ availability appears to change with age, prompting researchers to investigate whether increasing it could influence some processes associated with ageing.

One of the more visible treatments is intravenous NAD+, delivered through a drip. Wellness clinics promote NAD+ infusions for concerns including fatigue, recovery, cognitive function and longevity.

But understanding what NAD+ does biologically is different from proving that an infusion slows ageing.

A 2026 systematic review in Ageing Research Reviews found evidence that oral NAD+ precursors, including nicotinamide riboside and nicotinamide mononucleotide, can increase NAD-related biomarkers. However, evidence that these changes consistently translate into meaningful improvements in health remains limited.

The distinction is important because changing a biological marker does not automatically mean fewer wrinkles, better memory, improved physical performance or a longer lifespan.

There is also a difference between oral NAD+ precursors and intravenous NAD+. A 2026 study of commercially administered IV NAD+ reported short-term findings, including tolerability and exploratory metabolic outcomes, but this does not establish that NAD+ infusions slow human ageing.

Where Peptides Fit In

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Peptides are short chains of amino acids that perform different functions in the body. Some peptide-based medicines have established medical uses, while others are still being investigated.

At the same time, peptides are increasingly marketed through longevity clinics and online communities for claims involving muscle recovery, fat loss, sleep, skin health and other aspects of ageing.

This makes the word “peptide” particularly easy to misunderstand. An approved peptide medicine and an experimental compound marketed online for longevity do not have the same evidence, regulation or safety profile.

Peptides are also common in topical skincare, where certain formulations are marketed to improve the appearance of firmness and fine lines. Applying a peptide serum to the skin, however, is very different from injecting a peptide into the body. The route of administration affects the dose, potential risks and biological effects.

What Does Biohacking Really Offer?

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Longevity research is investigating processes including cellular energy production, DNA repair, inflammation, mitochondrial function and metabolic health. NAD+ is part of this research because of its role in several cellular processes.

But promising biological research does not automatically produce a proven treatment.

For consumers considering a longevity therapy, the important questions are what has actually been tested, in whom, at what dose, by which route and for what outcome.

Cost is another consideration. Repeated infusions or injectable treatments can become expensive, particularly when they are offered as ongoing wellness programmes.

There are also safety questions. IV treatment is an invasive procedure, while injectable peptides may carry risks related to the compound, dosing, contamination or product quality. These concerns are particularly relevant when substances are obtained through poorly regulated online sources.

Conclusion

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Some of the best-supported approaches to healthy ageing remain conventional: regular exercise, adequate sleep, a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and managing cardiovascular risk.

That does not mean NAD+ or peptide research should be dismissed. Some treatments may eventually prove useful for specific aspects of ageing or age-related disease.

For now, though, the evidence does not support treating NAD+ drips or experimental peptide injections as established anti-ageing therapies.

The next step is better human research showing whether changing these biological pathways produces meaningful improvements in health and function over time. Until then, biohacking remains an emerging area of longevity research, not a proven shortcut to slowing ageing.

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Laetitia Ky Is Turning Natural Hair into Sculptural Art

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Beauty

Laetitia Ky Is Turning Natural Hair into Sculptural Art

Published

1 day ago

11 August 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Instagram/@laetitiaky

Laetitia Ky has transformed natural hair into a unique art form. The artist uses her hair to create sculptures exploring African identity, feminism and women’s experiences.

She was born in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, in 1996, and grew up surrounded by women who braided their hair. Ky learnt braids from a young age before entering in fashion. After high school, she gradually returned to wearing her natural hair and began experimenting with different styles.

Photo: Instagram/@laetitiaky

Ky’s work gained attention through social media al media, where she began sharing photographs of her sculptural hairstyles. She has since turned her hair into objects, figures and other forms.

Ky uses her natural hair together with extensions, thread and wire to create her sculptures. Depending on the design, a piece takes 30 minutes to six hours. She then captures the finished work using a camera and tripod.

Photo: Instagram/@laetitiaky

Her inspiration is connected to African hair traditions. Ky has seen images of historical African hairstyles and was amazed by their complexity.

Moreover, her art talks about the complicated relationship many Black women have with their natural hair. Ky has described growing up in an environment where straight hair was a standard influenced by colonial ideas. She eventually turned that experience into an exploration of natural hair, identity and self-acceptance.

Photo: Instagram/@laetitiaky

Ky has used her hair to address subjects including sexism, violence against women, politics and problems affecting women and girls.

Ky has collaborated with Marc Jacobs, creating hair sculptures for promotional images featuring the brand’s products.

Photo: Instagram/@laetitiaky

Ky works can be found in her book Love & Justice, which shows photographs of her hair sculptures. In one project, she worked with her younger sister Florencia, creating sculptural hairstyles that represented their close relationship and trust.

Beauty

Products to Use on Your Hair to Keep It Healthy This Winter

Published

1 week ago

4 August 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Amazon

Have you noticed your hair feeling drier, rougher, or more prone to breakage as the weather gets colder? Winter has a way of removing moisture from your strands, leaving even the healthiest hair looking dull. The good news is that the right products can help restore hydration, improve texture, and keep your hair looking its best. From nourishing leave-in conditioners to lightweight oils, here are the hair care products worth adding to your routine this season.

Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil

Photo: Allure store

This hair product contains Jamaican black castor oil, shea butter, and peppermint oil. This product makes it difficult for your hair to snap during brushing. If you have coily hair, this is an effective solution during winter. It is available from selected beauty retailers for around R280, depending on size and location.

Moroccanoil Treatment

Photo: Allure Store

Moroccanoil Treatment contains nutrients that help nourish the hair. The oil protects hair from dryness caused by cold weather. It reduces split ends and makes your hair look better. A bottle lasts for several months. A bottle costs around R900 per bottle.

Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Cream

Photo: Allure Store

Cantu’s Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream contains shea butter with natural oils. This cream provides deep moisture for your hair. It stops hair breakage and prevents frizz. Cantu is a better alternative to silicone and drying alcohols. Available at Amazon stores for R134.

OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo and Conditioner

Photo: Amazon

A moisturising hair product like this is recommended because some shampoos can remove natural oils from the scalp. The OGX Argan Oil of Morocco replaces lost moisture.

It leaves your hair easier to style. It helps reduce frizz and protect the hair from becoming dry after washing. Using both the shampoo and conditioner together gives the best results. You can get them for around R230 at most beauty stores.

Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Recipes Don’t Shrink Curling Gel

Photo: Allure Store

This flaxseed gel locks hair moisture due to its richness in omega 3 fatty acids. It does not leave hair feeling flaky. This product keeps hair hydrated throughout the day. It does not have sulphate or parabens which could damage your hair. It costs about R200 in many stores.

Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil

Photo: Allure Store

With Mielle’s Rosemary Mint Oil, your hair is properly taken care of during winter. Massaging a few drops into the scalp reduced itching common during winter. It can be applied to the ends of the hair to reduce dryness and improve softness. It cost around R300.

To prevent hair dryness, choose the right hair care products. Don’t consider the price alone, check for the product that suits your hair. Proper use guarantees a healthy hair all season.

Beauty

4 Best Vitamin C Serums for Glowing Skin and Texture

Published

2 weeks ago

29 July 2026

Tega Ekeri

Photo: Pinterest

Vitamin C is one of the most researched ingredients in skincare. It helps fade post-acne marks, brightens dull skin, supports collagen production and protects against damage caused by pollution and UV exposure. With regular use, it can improve skin tone and texture while giving the complexion a brighter appearance.

Not every vitamin C serum performs the same way. The ingredient is naturally unstable, and some formulas lose their effectiveness before the bottle is finished. Dermatologists recommend choosing products with stable forms of vitamin C, protective packaging and antioxidants such as vitamin E or ferulic acid to help maintain potency.

Here are four vitamin C serums that are consistently recommended by dermatologists and beauty editors.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

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SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is consistently recommended by dermatologists and beauty editors. It contains 15% pure L-ascorbic acid, vitamin E and ferulic acid, a combination supported by extensive research.

The formula helps improve uneven skin tone, fine lines and loss of firmness while providing antioxidant protection throughout the day. Although it is a premium-priced product, it is widely regarded as one of the leading vitamin C serums available. It is suitable for most skin types, especially those looking to address early signs of ageing and persistent pigmentation.

La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum

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La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum is formulated for sensitive or reactive skin. It combines 10% pure vitamin C with ingredients that help improve skin texture without causing unnecessary irritation.

The lightweight serum absorbs quickly and works well under moisturiser and sunscreen. Regular use can smooth rough patches, brighten dull skin and gradually reduce the appearance of dark spots. It is also a suitable choice for anyone introducing vitamin C into their skincare routine.

Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster

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Paula’s Choice C15 Super Booster contains 15% vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid in a lightweight formula. It also includes ingredients that help keep the skin hydrated.

The serum layers well with other skincare products and is often used to address post-acne marks, uneven skin tone and dullness. It absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky finish, making it suitable for combination and oily skin.

CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum

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CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum is a budget-friendly option. It contains 10% pure vitamin C together with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help support the skin barrier while providing hydration.

The fragrance-free formula is suitable for many skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. Alongside its brightening benefits, it helps maintain moisture levels, making it suitable for daily use, particularly for people who experience dryness when using active skincare ingredients.

Apply a vitamin C serum in the morning after cleansing and before moisturiser, then finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Vitamin C works well with SPF by helping protect the skin against environmental damage while supporting a brighter, more even-looking complexion. Daily use is more important than choosing the highest vitamin C concentration, and visible improvements usually come with consistent application over time.