DefenAge: What You Need to Know

The DefenAge collection currently includes five products, including three—a serum, a cream, and an eye cream—that contain defensins. All are free of parabens. However, none of them contain SPF, so don't forget to apply a separate sunscreen.

• DefenAge 8-in-1 BioSerum ($220): Billed as the cornerstone of the DefenAge regimen, the serum contains the highest concentration of defensins in the entire line, as well as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and sea whip, to deliver results of eight separate serums. It's considered a retinol serum replacement (though it doesn't contain retinol) and can be used all over the entire face, including around the eyes. “The bioserum will do wonders for your periocular area,” says Dr. Angelique Berens, an otolaryngologist in Marysville, Washington. The skin rejuvenation serum is recommended for twice-daily application after using the 24/7 Barrier Balance Cream. 
• DefenAge 24/7 Barrier Balance Cream ($127): This lightweight cream hydrates, brightens, and refines the skin to reduce visible signs of aging. Available in scented and fragrance-free formulas, it’s recommended for twice-daily application after cleansing. 
• DefenAge 2-Minute Reveal Masque ($74): This brightening, exfoliating mask contains enzymes and ultrafine sugar crystals that gently slough away dead cells from the skin’s surface. The self-warming formula purports to enhance the penetration of other DefenAge products. 
• DefenAge 1-Step Multi-Cleanse ($62): This prebiotic-infused facial cleanser is designed to prepare skin for the DefenAge products that follow. It's gentle enough for even sensitive skin types.
• DefenAge 3D Eye Radiance Cream ($127): The metal applicator cools and soothes skin to reduce puffiness and allows for hands-free application. According to Dr. Monica Bonakdar, a physician in Corona del Mar, California, the cream visibly lifts, firms, and smooths upper eyelids; fades dark circles; and diminishes puffiness under eyes while reducing the appearance of crow’s-feet and fine lines around eyes. 

You can also find products available in sets, such as with the Clinical Power Trio, the 24-Hour Fast Starter Kit, and the Fly Kit.

Two different defensins (alpha-defensin 5 and beta-defensin 3) are claimed to significantly improve skin barrier function, which is key for healthy, hydrated skin. The DefenAge brand formulated these two defensins, in addition to other peptides and supporting molecules, into a proprietary blend that the brand calls “Age-Repair Defensins.” DefenAge claims this blend can produce up to 18 years of visible reduction in the signs of skin aging after just six weeks of regular use. 

There’s research to back up these claims, including several double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies. “A 2018 study compared the action of defensin peptides, which are the active ingredient in DefenAge, against retinoic acid (aka Retin-A). This study showed that DefenAge rejuvenates facial skin similar to cosmetic retinoic acid, without the irritation,” reports Dr. Bonakdar.

In total, the technology boasts success in 14 different clinical trials. These studies found that the brand’s proprietary reparative defensins provide significant improvement in skin elasticity, discoloration, even skin tone, appearance of visible pores, fine lines and wrinkles, hydration levels, and excess oil. 

Additionally, DefenAge has a 83% Worth It Rating among RealSelf members. "I can not describe the feeling of excitement when I view my skin after using this amazing product for over 5 weeks. It has given my skin a total metamorphosis. It’s now like the skin I had in my 30s," wrote one RealSelf member in her review. However, another reviewer didn't notice any improvement after six weeks of use.

All the products are available for purchase on the brand’s website, DefenAge.com, and found at dermatologists' offices.