The invention describes a unique composition of ingredients for improving the skin's visual appearance, function, and biophysical properties that has been changed by factors such as chronological age, chronic sun exposure, adverse environmental pollutants, household chemicals, disease pathologies, smoking, and malnutrition. In particular, the present invention relates to the composition of topically-applied cosmetics formulas that effectively treat aged and environmentally-damaged skin. These formulas may comprise various combinations of cosmetically compatible plant lectins, a high energy source for skin cell metabolism such as lactobacillus ferment, hydrolyzed wheat protein, glycine, arginine, and methionine and β Glucans, which are formulated into different types of cosmetic vehicles. The invention provides for an effective alternative to the use of mono- and polyhydroxy acids, retinoid compounds, vitamins, nutraceuticals, physical corneum desquamating devices, and various plant and animal extracts.