Step Inside the Five-Story Chamber of CURIOSITY…

A sea of umbrellas and an RSVP list longer than your skincare routine- Dr. Barbara Sturm’s SoHo takeover was nothing short of an event. Known for her inflammation-fighting approach to longevity, the podiatrist-turned-skincare icon curated a beauty pop-up that buzzed with anticipation.

The line stretched past Cafe Select. The guests were committed. Some arrived without knowing exactly what they were waiting for- just that they needed to be there.

Then came the unexpected twist: a select few plucked from the drizzle to attend a panel on menopause and libido. Yes, you read that right. A detour into skin and hormonal wellness, proving once again that aging isn't just about aesthetics. It’s about balance, inside and out.

The Science

NAD, NR, NMR: the Skin-Longevity Connection

The real conversation wasn’t just about glowing skin. It was about cellular optimization. Enter NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and its trendy cousins NR (nicotinamide riboside) and NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide). For now, these supplements are hailed as the future of aging gracefully.

Dr. Alicia Robbins made it clear: she is not a fan of straight-up NAD. She prefers NR, a precursor that boosts NAD production more naturally. The debate is fierce. Some scientists swear by NAD, others insist NR is the superior choice. NMN, another precursor, is often praised for its ability to more directly raise NAD levels. Either way, these compounds play into the longevity game by activating sirtuins- those powerhouse proteins responsible for DNA repair, mitochondrial function, and metabolic efficiency.

And yes, it all circles back to Dr. David Sinclair’s research in yeast. Understanding aging at its molecular level may just be the key to unlocking your most radiant future. (Read our review of Dr. Sinclair’s work here)

Who Should Take NAD, NR and NMR?

While these supplements may sound like beauty’s new holy grail, they are best suited for those looking to counteract the natural decline of NAD levels that comes with age. Some rely on them for endurance and recovery, others turn to them for cognitive longevity and metabolic support. And yet, results vary. Some experience heightened energy. Others feel nothing but mild nausea. From the Ayurvedic perspective, this is a Kapha and Vata distinction, respectively.

Just as ashwagandha has demonstrated benefits but isn’t universally suitable, NAD and NR require careful consideration before incorporation into a routine. NMN, while promising, is no exception. Personal chemistry and genetic predispositions often influence how individuals respond.

Dosage Matters

Navigating the world of longevity supplements requires a keen eye on dosage. Most studies point to NR in the range of 250 to 500mg per day, while NMN has shown efficacy at doses between 250 to 900mg. NAD IV therapy tends to start at 500mg per session and can reach up to 1500mg, but as with any supplement regimen, professional guidance is non-negotiable.

Bottom Line

Skin is the window to longevity.

Aging is inevitable. But how you age? That’s strategy. Whether it’s NAD supplements, NMN boosters, anti-inflammatory skincare, or simply understanding that what happens inside eventually reflects on the outside, longevity is a lifestyle… not just a look.

And if a little well-placed free beauty comes with it? Well, that’s just the cherry on top.

Each goodie bag for General Admission (free) tickets contained key Sturm products in kit sizes and a 20% off discount code. Slip included their scrunchies that work well to keep hair pretty after a workout. Partner snack and drink samples were available for choosing at the kitchen station. (Read our review of Sturm’s Glow Cream here)