1. CLEANSE EVERY NIGHT A recent study found that 50% of women don’t wash their faces at night, a habit that can make skin look older; leaving dirt, excess oil, and makeup on overnight can irritate skin, clog pores, and trigger breakouts. To refresh skin in the morning, splash with lukewarm water.
  2. USE BROAD-SPECTRUM SPF 30 DAILY Being vigilant about UV protection is key if you want younger-looking skin. Studies show that even 10 minutes of daily exposure to UVA “aging” rays can cause changes that lead to wrinkles and brown spots in as few as 12 weeks.
  3. TREAT SKIN WITH PROVEN ANTI-AGERS There are a number of “hero” ingredients with solid research behind them: Retinoids, antioxidants, peptides, niacinamide, glycolic acid, and DNA-repair enzymes are just a few proven to rejuvenate skin. But choosing which to use–and how to use them–can be confusing. That’s the beauty of these four routines, which were created by Macrene Alexiades-Armenakas, MD, PhD, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine and the program’s skin care pro. Each regimen incorporates several skin savers, so all you have to do is choose the one that helps make your biggest beauty wish come true–whether it’s to improve fine lines and wrinkles, brown spots, acne, or sensitivity. Bonus: Because all the routines assist with a range of common aging concerns, your skin will be softer, smoother, and less splotchy within a few months (if not before!) no matter which you use. To get the best results from your routine, be sure to follow the how-to tips from Alexiades-Armenakas in each of the regimens. CHOOSE THE PLAN THAT FILLS YOUR BEAUTY WISH

WHAT TO EXPECT By the time you reach your second month, skin is softer and smoother, and your makeup goes on better—not bad for spending just 5 minutes a day caring for your complexion. For the best from each skin regimen above, consistency is key: “Healthy skin is the result of a daily commitment,” says Alexiades-Armenakas. Keep it up and by the time you reach your third month, you could have the same experience as panelist Liz Buffa. Her husband, who never before commented on her skin or makeup, asked if she was wearing something new because her skin looked so nice! Stick-With-It Tip: Deal With Dryness When several panelists got red and flaky from anti-agers like retinol, Alexiades-Armenakas advised they stop using them for a few days and moisturize more often. To minimize side effects, use products as directed in month 1. RETURN TO THE DEFY YOUR AGE CHALLENGE HOMEPAGE