10 Years Younger

Unlike Extreme Makeover, in which participants endure surgery, this show focuses on simple, relatively straightforward techniques. The results are sometimes dramatic and sometimes modest -- but participants uniformly express delight with the changes. The show's host (Mark Montano in early seasons, followed by Kyan Douglas of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy) takes a delicate approach to dealing with folks who, for one reason or another, have put their appearance on hold. Some -- like one 42-year-old participant named Dwayne, struggle with self-esteem -- which is reflected in their "cover up" clothing and grooming choices (loose, shapeless clothing, facial hair, etc.).

Teens might find this makeover show appealing, though its focus on older participants might temper the allure. The host and experts aren't as snippy and charismatic as those on What Not to Wear, which may make 10 Years Younger seem like the boring sibling, but with its emphasis on helping people feel better about themselves -- as opposed to criticizing them -- it's the better choice for younger viewers from a message standpoint. That said, the show doesn't go far beyond the surface. Guests receive superficial help with their emotional issues, but the emphasis is largely on their physical ones, leaving viewers wondering how long they'll feel the effect of the changes before reverting to their old ways.