Medicube EGF NAD+ Firming Serum Review – Real Results??

Medicube has joined the NAD+ enzyme wagon with a mixed serum with active EGF and NAD+. But if you are not as clued into the skincare game, what do these letters mean? NAD+ is an enzyme that naturally exists inside your skin cells, that helps form regeneration of the energy pathway. It helps keep cells ‘active’ and is rejuvenating. Studies have shown topical NAD+ is capable of protecting the skin against external and internal aging. This has been coupled with EGF, also known as ‘epidermal growth factor’, which signals for your skin to regenerate, produce collagen and hyaluronic acid for an immediate plumping effect. 

This combination delivers a powerful, but really gentle duo designed to help boost fine lines, improve skin energy and prevent early signs of aging. But does it truly work? Compared to Medicube’s powerful skincare devices, spicule serums and more – how can a gentle serum infused with growth factors compare? Let’s see the before-and-after and delve into the results. 

Niacinamide: brightening vitamin B3 that helps reduce dark spots and even skin textures, whilst leaving a lasting glow. 

Ectoin: molecule that helps boost natural skin hydration, improves the skin barrier and protects the skin from UV-induced stress. 

Cocoa Seed extract: inhibits enzymes that break down the skin matrix to boost skin firmness and enhances hydration, providing protection against environmental pollution. 

Adenosine: powerful molecule that reduces periorbital wrinkles, fine lines and improves skin elasticity. 

Rosehip Fruit Oil: powerful antioxidant extract that helps boost skin health, stimulate collagen production, whilst also being rich in vitamin C to reduce dark spots and improve natural radiance. 

NAD+ (1ppm): boosting extract that helps improve cellular energy, enhance DNA repair and help improve skin longevity and radiance.  

Soybean ferment (w/ Bacillus): enhanced hydration of skin, boosts skin barrier and probiotics to help enhance skin function.  

Cranberry extract: rich in polyphenols to help improve skin elasticity, reduce cell oxidative stress and cool redness and inflammation. 

Bilberry extract: soothing extract that helps boost skin hydration, reduce fine lines and enhance natural skin brightness.  

Elderberry extract: rich in a variety of healing molecules that helps boost the skin matrix, enhance collagen support and reduce inflammation. 

Strawberry extract: rich, hydrating berry extract that helps reduce cell stress, protect natural skin structures and enhance cell survival for stronger, more vibrant skin texture. 

Acai palm extract: soothing extract that helps calm redness and swelling, whilst also boosting cell turnover whilst protecting new skin cells for better elasticity. 

Peptides: cell signaling molecules that help stimulate collagen, elastin and helps firm and plump skin, whilst supporting deeper hydration. 

This soothing fine line serum, is gentle on a variety of skin types, but most ideal for dry skin. There is a large variety of ingredients, which could be triggering to some very sensitive skin types. It's important to screen ingredients before you buy to make sure you aren't picking something that could be irritating.

I've tried a variety of fine line serums, from retinol to spicules to PDRN and peptides. This serum, is perhaps one of the most gentle of Medicube's fine line range, without irritating ingredients and a smooth, fast absorption into the skin. I added it to my PM routine and (as per Medicube's recommendation, followed it with a hydrating moisturizer). 

It has a lovely, rich red colour and a light floral scent and is easy to apply, whilst also being highly compatible with a variety of routines. It's always hard to think if there are going to be quick results with gentle formulas, so I was excited to see what the improvements would be.

In just two weeks, there was a great boost to skin hydration and glow. You can see my cheek is plumper and undereye lines were reduced in depth. There was a really great improvement to individual pores, creating clearer and brighter skin (that was incredibly gentle to obtain!)

I think this is a great, hydrating and soothing serum (especially if you are not a fan of harsh treatments such as retinol or microneedling). This serum helps boost moisture quickly, reduce pore appearance and reduces depth of fine lines.

So, is this serum overhyped? Perhaps - it's not going to revolutionize your whole life, fix your hectic schedule or prevent your dog from barking at the neighbours. But! If you need a boost to skin hydration, want to blur pores and enhance your skin's natural glow, this is a great soothing skin treatment. Although compatible with a variety of skin types, I would most recommend it with dry skin and fine lines; as you're going to see the best improvements and get the most out of your investment!

Want to see more of the amazing Medicube skincare range? Check out their latest releases on Arktastic! With fresh products shipped directly from Seoul ~ we take skincare seriously. 🐱

Want to enhance your K-beauty knowledge and become a master of skincare? Check out our guide to the science of Medicube and the philosophy of their company. Or check out our latest review of their TXA/Niacinamide cream (for oily skin care!)

What are the key active ingredients in Medicube EGF NAD+ Firming Serum? 

The formula features a cellular-energy duo: NAD to protect skin cells and improve longevity, paired with EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) to signal collagen production and skin regeneration. It also contains Niacinamide, Ectoin, Adenosine, Peptides, Rosehip Fruit Oil, and fermented botanical extracts.

Is this serum suitable for sensitive skin types?

 While it is much gentler than harsh treatments like retinol or microneedling, it contains a wide variety of botanical and berry extracts. If you have highly sensitive or reactive skin, screen the full ingredient list or patch-test first to prevent potential irritation.

How quickly can I expect to see results? 

In clinical testing, users noticed a boost in skin hydration, plumper cheeks, reduced undereye line depth, and blurred pore appearance within two weeks of daily evening use.

How should I fit this serum into my skincare routine?

 Apply a few drops after cleansing and toning during your PM routine. Follow with a hydrating moisturizer to lock in active ingredients.