 New home sales fell by a whopping 92% in December to 203 units, from a high of 2,560 in November, according to data from the Urban Redevelopment Authority.
Previously, analysts predicted that there would be a drop in sales in December. The December sales represent the lowest monthly sales in 10 months since 153 units were transacted in February 2024. On a year-on-year basis, developers’ sales were about 50% higher than the 135 units shifted in December 2023. Developers placed only 20 new units (ex. EC) for sale in December, all from The Myst which was launched for sale in July 2023. This is drastically lower than the 2,871 units released for sale in November. Based on monthly data tracked by PropNex starting from 2009, the 20 units launched in December 2024 are the lowest on record. All three sub-markets witnessed a decline in sales in December from November. The Outside Central Region (OCR) led monthly sales, with 111 units (ex. EC) sold in December – down sharply by about 88% from 893 units transacted in the previous month. The top-selling OCR projects in December were Hillock Green which sold 19 units at a median price of $2,278 psf, The Myst which moved 17 units at a median price of $2,080 psf, and Chuan Park which transacted 11 units at a median price of $2,657 psf. Home sales in the OCR are projected to be relatively lively in January as freehold development, the 113-unit Bagnall Haus (next to the upcoming Sungei Bedok MRT interchange station) is slated to be launched on 18 January. The Rest of Central Region (RCR) saw 73 new homes sold during the month, also markedly lower than the 1,569 units shifted in November, where projects such as Emerald of Katong and Nava Grove boosted sales. In December, the most popular RCR projects included The Continuum which sold 15 units at a median price of $2,864 psf, and Pinetree Hill where 11 units changed hands at a median price of $2,543 psf. Developers’ sales in the RCR are also expected to rise in January, with the upcoming launch of the 777-unit The Orie in Toa Payoh. Over in the Core Central Region (CCR), developers sold 19 new units in December – moderating from the 98 units shifted in the previous month. The CCR project that posted the highest sales during the month was The Collective at One Sophia which moved 9 units at a median price of $2,758 psf. New private home sales in the CCR have been mostly tepid, amid limited new CCR project launches since the tightening of the additional buyer’s stamp duty (ABSD) measure in April 2023. CCR sales will likely pick up in January, with One Bernam reportedly selling more units. Over in the EC segment, sales fell by 49% to 170 units in December from 334 units in November. The best-selling EC project was Novo Place in Tengah which sold 158 units at a median price of $1,647 psf in December, when the project was opened to second-timer buyers a month after it was launched. Overall, Novo Place EC has transacted 445 out of its 504 units (or 88%) since it hit the market in November 2024. Based on URA’s data, there were 160 unsold new EC units as of the end of December. This tight supply of unsold stock bodes well for the upcoming EC project, Aurelle of Tampines which will offer 760 new EC units. Meanwhile, new home sales in 2025 will kick off with the launch of the 777-unit The Orie in the RCR and 113-unit Bagnall Haus in OCR on 18 January.
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 GuocoLand has secured two green facilities from DBS and OCBC, which were raised under its Green Finance Framework.
The $1.135b green facility from DBS will be used to refinance GuocoLand’s latest integrated mixed development, Guoco Midtown, whilst the $105m green facility will be used to refinance its luxury residential development, Midtown Bay. The new green facilities bring the total amount of green financing secured by GuocoLand to approximately $5b, including green facilities for Guoco Tower, Lentor Mansion, Lentor Modern, Midtown Modern, and the Upper Thomson Road development. “We are pleased to once again partner with DBS and OCBC for our funding and to further our sustainability aspirations. This latest refinancing activity allows us to optimise our capital structure while staying true to our commitment to creating thoughtfully designed spaces that balance economic, environmental, and social factors,” Andrew Chew, group CFO of GuocoLand said.  In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the role of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs) has never been more vital. As the demand for medical services continues to outpace the supply of physicians, these professionals are stepping in to bridge critical gaps, ensuring patients receive timely and effective care. Their ability to extend the reach of healthcare teams is not only addressing shortages but also reshaping the way care is delivered.
NPs and PAs are uniquely equipped to handle a wide range of medical responsibilities. From diagnosing illnesses to managing chronic conditions, they operate with a level of autonomy that rivals that of primary care physicians. This flexibility is particularly essential in underserved areas, where they often serve as the primary healthcare providers. Their presence significantly reduces wait times and improves access to care for millions. The expansion of telemedicine has further amplified their role. NPs and PAs are at the forefront of this digital revolution, delivering care through virtual platforms and broadening their reach to rural and remote communities. With these advancements, they are not just filling gaps but creating new opportunities for comprehensive and accessible healthcare delivery. Expanding The Scope Of Practice The scope of practice for NPs and PAs has evolved considerably over the past few decades. Today, they are authorized to perform procedures, prescribe medications, and manage complex cases—responsibilities once reserved exclusively for physicians. This shift is not only a response to physician shortages but also a testament to the rigorous training and expertise these professionals bring to the table. In many states, NPs now practice independently, thanks to full practice authority laws. This independence empowers them to operate clinics, lead healthcare initiatives, and innovate within their specialties. Similarly, PAs, working under collaborative agreements with physicians, bring versatility and adaptability to diverse medical settings, from emergency rooms to outpatient clinics. Organizations like Collaborating Docs have played a pivotal role in facilitating these expanded roles. By connecting NPs and PAs with experienced collaborating physicians and providing the necessary legal and administrative support, they enable these professionals to focus on delivering high-quality care. Additionally, their services encompass a wide range of support, including payment facilitation, insurance assistance, and other critical resources tailored to the needs of these professionals, ensuring seamless practice and professional growth. Enhancing Patient Outcomes Patient outcomes are a cornerstone of evaluating healthcare quality, and nurse practitioners and physician assistants have consistently proven their ability to deliver. Studies show that care provided by these professionals often equals or exceeds the quality of physician-led care, particularly in primary and preventive services. Their patient-centered approach fosters strong relationships and enhances trust, which are critical for successful treatment plans. NPs and PAs excel in managing chronic diseases, a growing challenge in healthcare systems worldwide. Their holistic approach addresses not just the physical symptoms but also the social and psychological aspects of care. By emphasizing preventive care and health education, they empower patients to take an active role in their health, leading to better long-term outcomes. Moreover, their ability to collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary teams amplifies their impact. By working alongside physicians, nurses, therapists, and other healthcare providers, they contribute to comprehensive care plans that address the multifaceted needs of patients. This teamwork is particularly beneficial in managing complex cases, where multiple perspectives can lead to better decision-making and improved results. Addressing Healthcare Disparities Healthcare disparities remain a persistent challenge, with socioeconomic, geographic, and racial inequalities limiting access for many. NPs and PAs are uniquely positioned to address these disparities through their commitment to underserved populations. Their presence in community health centers, rural clinics, and urban underserved areas ensures that critical services reach those who need them most. These professionals often focus on building rapport with their patients, earning trust in communities where healthcare hesitancy can be a barrier. This trust is essential for encouraging preventive care and early interventions, which are key to reducing long-term health disparities. By tailoring their approach to the unique needs of each community, nurse practitioners and physician assistants make healthcare more inclusive and equitable. Their contributions are especially impactful in rural areas, where they frequently serve as the primary point of contact for medical care. Their ability to provide a wide range of services—often with limited resources—underscores their value in addressing gaps that would otherwise leave entire populations vulnerable. Economic Efficiency In Healthcare Delivery The integration of NPs and PAs into healthcare teams is not only a clinical success but also an economic advantage. By handling routine and preventive care, they free up physicians to focus on more complex cases, optimizing the allocation of resources within healthcare systems. This division of labor reduces overall costs while maintaining, or even improving, the quality of care. Employing NPs and PAs is particularly cost-effective for hospitals and clinics facing financial pressures. Their salaries are significantly lower than those of physicians, yet their scope of practice allows them to provide a comparable level of care in many situations. This economic efficiency extends to patients as well, who benefit from lower healthcare costs without compromising quality. Furthermore, their focus on preventive care has long-term financial benefits. By addressing health issues early and educating patients about healthy lifestyles, they help to avoid costly complications and hospitalizations. This proactive approach not only saves money but also enhances patient satisfaction and overall wellbeing. Preparing For The Future As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the importance of nurse practitioners and physician assistants will only grow. With aging populations and increasing rates of chronic illnesses, the demand for their expertise is expected to surge. Preparing for this future requires continued investment in their education, training, and professional development. Policy changes will play a crucial role in maximizing their potential. Expanding full practice authority for NPs and standardizing regulations for PAs across states can remove unnecessary barriers and enhance their ability to contribute meaningfully. This legislative support must be coupled with initiatives that address workforce shortages and ensure equitable distribution of these professionals across all communities. Finally, the integration of technology will be a game-changer. From telemedicine to artificial intelligence, emerging tools can further enhance the capabilities of NPs and PAs, allowing them to deliver care that is not only high-quality but also innovative and efficient. Embracing these advancements will solidify their position as indispensable pillars of modern healthcare.  Ageing gracefully has always been a dream for everyone, including us at Beauty Insider. This includes how our skin looks and changes.However, as we grow older, we produce less collagen, and the existing collagen breaks down more rapidly, according to the Cleveland Clinic. So, how are we supposed to tackle this issue? Taking a collagen drink can be one of many ways to support collagen production.
Now that we have caught your attention, hold your horses before you add a bunch of collagen drinks to your shopping cart. There are several things you should know about collagen drinks before trying them. Let’s dive into the world of collagen and explore everything you need to know before sipping on that bottle! What is Collagen? As stated by Harvard Health, collagen serves as a vital structural protein in our tissues. It can be found in our skin, nails, hair, bones, cartilage, and tendons. Collagen also works with substances like elastin and hyaluronic acid to promote skin elasticity and moisture. Aside from that, it also contributes to the formation of proteins like keratin that make up hair, nails, and skin. Did you know that our bodies naturally produce collagen using amino acids from collagen or protein-rich foods like meat, bone broth, and fish? However, many factors can decrease our collagen production, such as ageing, sun damage, and even alcohol consumption. That’s when collagen drinks and supplements come into play, dominating the shelves as many people have become aware of their potential benefits. These supplements often contain collagen from different sources, such as fish, chicken, and cattle. Additionally, they are typically formulated with peptides to make up important proteins in the body, like keratin and collagen. What Is the Role of Collagen? The primary function of collagen is to offer structure, strength, and support to your body. If you are wondering about collagen’s specific roles, Cleveland Clinic has stated that collagen provides structure, elasticity, and strength to the skin. Not only that, collagen also assists fibroblasts in forming within the dermis (middle skin layer) to support new cell growth. Moreover, it plays a key part in replacing dead skin cells while offering a protective shield for the organs. What Factors Lead to Collagen Loss? Your collagen production will naturally decline as you grow older. Collagen also becomes fragmented and is distributed less efficiently. Healthline states that these changes are what cause signs of ageing, such as saggy, dry skin and wrinkles. Additionally, the integrity of collagen in your skeletal system declines, resulting in weaker bones. Given that collagen loss and damage are inevitable with age, certain lifestyle and dietary factors can fast-track this process. For instance, excessive alcohol consumption can speed up skin ageing by reducing collagen production and damaging the skin’s repair mechanisms. What’s more, smoking cigarettes can cause collagen degradation, wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity, and skin ageing. Not only that, excessive exposure to the sun also degrades collagen production. Hence, it is important to wear sunscreen and reapply it at least every two hours. Avoiding extreme sun exposure can help prevent signs of premature skin ageing. We are what we eat. So, if your diet consists of ultra-processed foods and high added sugar, this can lead to premature ageing. This is because it contributes to a glycation process, which decreases collagen turnover and disrupts collagen’s ability to interact with surrounding proteins and cells. How Many Types of Collagen Are There? There are a total of 28 types of collagen that have been identified. These vary in how the molecules are arranged, the additional cell components, and where they are utilised in the body. Regardless, all collagen fibrils feature at least one triple helix structure. The five main types of collagen and their functions: Type I Making up to 90% of the body’s collagen, this type is tightly packed and is responsible for the structure of skin, bones, ligaments, and tendons. Type II This type can be found in elastic cartilage, which is important for supporting joints. Type II This type can be found in organs, arteries, and muscles. Type IV This type can be found in the layers of the skin. Type V This type can be found in hair, some layers of skin, the cornea of the eyes, and tissue of the placenta. What is a Collagen Drink? Based on BrainMD, a collagen drink or collagen water is exactly what it sounds like — water blended with collagen. This liquid supplement may also contain ingredients like juice or fruit essences for easier consumption. Typically, other additional nutrients are added to the drink, such as biotin, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C, to aid in building or supporting collagen in the body. What Are the Benefits of Drinking Collagen? Apart from its benefits in tackling the signs of ageing by promoting the skin’s elasticity and structure, there are several other benefits of consuming a collagen drink:
How Does a Collagen Drink Work? There are some studies that support the skin-boosting benefits of collagen drinks. However, these studies can’t determine whether the aesthetic improvements come from the collagen or other ingredients in the formula, like hyaluronic acid or vitamins. The main issue is absorption. It remains unclear how much collagen peptides, if any, are absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract. Though many believe hydrolysed collagen is the answer due to its small molecules, which can pass through the system undamaged and reach the desired areas. Many collagen drinks contain hydrolysed collagen to break down the protein structure for better absorption and bioavailability. When Is the Ideal Time to Consume a Collagen Drink? Pharmacist and co-founder of Ingenious, Pupinder Ghatora, advises taking your collagen supplement before bed, as the body undergoes a rejuvenation and regeneration phase while you sleep. Ghatora also emphasises that consistency is key, so taking it at any time of day is better than missing doses. However, the situation changes if you exercise. Ghatora explains that collagen degradation is higher during training compared to when you are not working out. Therefore, it is recommended to take your collagen drink or supplement about half an hour before your workout. Doing so can help your muscles and joints handle exercise strain more effectively, promoting efficient recovery. Drink vs Powder Collagen: Which One Should You Choose? Even though drink and powder collagen both serve the same purpose of supporting collagen production, there are several differences between the two. BrainMD explains these differences to help you choose based on your preference and budget. Collagen Drink
Collagen Powder
Where Can You Get a Collagen Drink in Singapore? Now that you are informed about what you need to know about collagen drinks, it is time to figure out where you can get your hands on one. Nevertheless, the idea of going through a sea of collagen drinks before making your purchase can be daunting. That is why we are here to help! It is time to save you some precious time, as we have gathered the best collagen drinks in Singapore for you to choose from. Here’s to glowing skin, free from the signs of ageing because we all deserve to age beautifully.  Having first opened a local outpost in Bedok last year, the popular Malaysian chain US Pizza has been expanding its presence here pretty rapidly. This year saw it open its latest outlet at Funan, where Little Caesars Pizza once was. Founded in Penang in 1997, this pizzeria now has over 100 outlets in Malaysia. It is known for its Cheese Boat Pizza ($21.90), inspired by adjaruli khachapuri AKA Georgian cheese bread.  The Cheese Boat Pizza features thin layers of pizza dough stuffed with gooey cheese and finished with an egg in the centre. There is a hint of garlic amongst all the cheesy goodness, resulting in a unique savoury goodness!  The Salted Egg Pizza ($21.90) is also recommended. With salted egg yolk bits atop squid, shrimp, curry leaves, and chilli, this moreish pizza will impress those looking for bolder flavours. Besides these special edition pizzas, US Pizza also has more run-of-the-mill flavours, such as the Aloha Pizza and Spicy Chicken Deluxe. Prices start at $9.90 each.  To celebrate the opening of the Funan outlet, US Pizza is offering a Buy 1 Free 1 deal for all their a la carte pizzas at this outlet. The promotion lasts from now till 27 January 2025, so be sure to plan your visit and take advantage of the deal! Even if you’re not willing to make the trip down, they’re also available for delivery islandwide, via their online ordering site.
Address: 107 North Bridge Road, Mall, #01-18 Funan, 179105 Opening hours: Daily 10am to 10:30pm Website US Pizza is a halal-certified eatery.  Experience the perfect blend of ancient wisdom and modern wellness technology at a transformative event that provides participants with practical tools and knowledge for lasting mind-body benefits.
𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐖𝐎𝐎𝐃 𝐒𝐍𝐀𝐊𝐄 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇, 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐒𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐘, 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐋𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐘 Join us for an enriching day featuring renowned experts in Fengshui, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and modern wellness practices:
𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬: Date: Saturday, 18 January 2025 Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Venue: Hotel Grand Central, Sojourn Seminar Room, Level 2 22 Cavenagh Road, Singapore 229617 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭: Fengshui Health Tips: Learn powerful Fengshui strategies to enhance your energy and well-being in the Year of the Wood Snake. Discover how changing Flying Stars influence health and prosperity. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡: Explore the integration of TCM and Fengshui into modern life, promoting harmony for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭 𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to embrace ancient traditions and modern innovations for a healthier, more prosperous year ahead.  Over the weekend of Jan 11 to 12, One Bernam, the mixed-use development with 351 residential units in Tanjong Pagar, offered 87 units for sale at promotional prices.
The 99-year leasehold apartment tower by joint developers MCC Land and Hao Yuan Investment was first launched in May 2021. Based on caveats lodged as at Jan 10, over 75% of the units were sold at an average price of $2,585 psf. The weekend promotion prices applied across all the remaining 87 units, from one-bedroom to three-bedroom, as well as penthouses. One-bedroom units ranging from 441 sq ft to 463 sq ft saw price discounts of $323,000 to $438,000, with units sold at prices ranging from $1.295 million ($2,934 psf) to $1.328 million ($2,869 psf). Meanwhile, the two-bedroom apartments of 700 sq ft to 732 sq ft had price discounts from $437,000 to $668,000, with units sold at prices from $1.752 million ($2,394 psf) to $1.78 million ($2,544 psf). The two-bedroom plus study apartments of 807 sq ft to 872 sq ft saw price discounts ranging from $380,000 to $800,000. The two-bedroom plus study apartments were sold at prices ranging from $2.139 million ($2,581 psf) to $2.158 million ($2,475 psf). Three-bedroom apartments of 1,421 sq ft had discounts ranging from $616,000 to $830,000, with units sold at $3.496 million ($2,461 psf) to $3.526 million ($2,482 psf). According to Marcus Chu, CEO of ERA Singapore, the sales performance highlights "the strong interest in the property as a stable and high-potential asset". Chu adds that about 78% of the purchasers bought their units as investments. Additionally, 87% of the buyers for One Bernam were Singaporeans, with 70% aged between 31 and 50. Following the "overwhelming response" over the weekend, only three penthouses are currently available for sale, bringing total sales to 99%. It includes two units of three-bedroom penthouses with sizes of 1,744 sq ft and 1,948 sq ft, while the remaining unit is 4,306 sq ft in size and comprises five bedrooms. As the project is scheduled to obtain a Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) in March 2026, investors are expected to start generating rental income, which could support their loan instalments, Chu reckons. Based on EdgeProp Landlens data, average monthly rents of existing apartment projects in the area, such as Altez, Eon Shenton and 76 Shenton, command rental rates ranging from $6.90 psf to $7.40 psf. Looking ahead, Chu says the reduced competition from foreign buyers due to the hike in Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) imposed in 2023 has opened up more opportunities for local buyers to enter the market. "Local demand is expected to continue being the key driver for Central Core Region (CCR) properties moving forward, with competitive pricing making these developments a desirable and stable investment choice," adds Chu.  The median gross monthly salary of polytechnic graduates in full-time employment increased to $2,900 from $2,800 in 2024, according to the Polytechnic Graduate Employment Survey.
The median gross monthly salary of graduates from Health Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Information and Digital Technologies were the highest amongst all programs. The survey also found that 87.5% of graduates were employed within six months of graduation or after completing full-time National Service, despite slower employment growth last year. Additionally, 54.6% of 5,769 graduates were in full-time permanent employment, 27% were in part‐time employment, and 2.9% had either accepted a job offer or were actively starting a business venture.  Each year, millions of people deal with colds, the flu, and other common sicknesses that can make life difficult. But there are ways of taking steps to prevent illness so you can greatly lower your risk of getting sick and ensure you remain energetic and productive.
There are a lot of benefits of preventive care. It can reduce medical costs by lessening the need for treatments, improve your quality of life by keeping you active in your daily routines, and help your community by decreasing the spread of diseases. In this article, we will go over some of the best ways to prevent yourself from getting common sicknesses. 1. Get Regular Checkups Seeing a doctor regularly is a key part of staying healthy. Regular check-ups help your doctor find and treat health issues before they become serious. It’s an approach that not only keeps you healthier but also prevents sudden medical problems that can interrupt your life. Concierge medicine is a great option for those looking for more personalized and thorough care that helps prevent many common sicknesses. Concierge medicine in Austin Texas is a good example of this. Patients who choose concierge medicine get longer appointments, easier access to their doctors, and a strong focus on preventing health issues. This kind of medical service pays close attention to all parts of a patient’s health, from regular screenings to customized health advice, helping you live a healthier and better-informed life. 2. Strengthen Your Immune System To boost your immune system, begin with a balanced diet. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains gives your body the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it needs to fight off illnesses. Regular exercise is also key to a healthy immune system. Activities like walking, biking, or swimming not only keep your heart healthy and manage your weight but also help your immune system work better. Exercise helps your body get rid of toxins, which can lower your chance of getting sick. Getting enough sleep and managing stress are just as important for your immune health. Sleep helps your body repair itself and rebuild immune cells. Try to get seven to nine hours of good sleep each night to let your body rest properly. Managing stress through methods like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can also protect your immune system from being worn down, helping it stay strong. 3. Use Good Hygiene Habits Good hygiene is key to stopping the spread of illnesses. One of the best ways to stay healthy is by washing your hands properly and often. Make sure to use soap and water and scrub for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places, or after you sneeze, cough, or blow your nose. Also, try not to touch your face with unwashed hands. Germs can enter your body through your eyes, nose, and mouth, so keeping your hands clean can prevent this. When you sneeze or cough, cover your mouth and nose with the inside of your elbow or use a tissue. This stops germs from spreading to others.  If you’re wondering why your skincare routine isn’t doing you any favours, ask yourself these questions. Do you know your skin type? Do you have different routines for morning and night? And most importantly, are you taking the weather into account? Singapore’s hot and humid climate can make maintaining healthy skin a challenge. The constant heat and high humidity often lead to excess oil, clogged pores, and frustrating breakouts. But don’t worry — a skincare routine tailored to these conditions can help you keep your skin balanced, fresh, and glowing.
We hate to break it to you, but a 20-step skincare routine won’t necessarily benefit your skin. The truth is, you don’t need an endless array of products with various ingredients — your skin naturally produces most of what it needs. Keeping your routine simple is the best approach. Here are the essential steps your skin needs both during the day and at night. Our Guide to the Best Skincare Routine Morning Skincare Routine Your morning skincare routine is all about starting the day on the right note — protecting and hydrating your skin to face whatever comes your way. Think of it as a shield against sunlight, pollution, and all the little stressors your skin encounters daily. The right steps in the morning not only keep your skin feeling fresh but also ensure it looks vibrant and healthy throughout the day. Pro tip: be sure to take your time with each step and let the products fully absorb before moving on to the next product. This maximises their benefits and prevents your skin from feeling heavy or overloaded. Here are the proper steps in the right order for you to practice every AM: Cleanser Start with a gentle cleanser to refresh your skin and remove any impurities that have built up overnight. Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, choose a cleanser that matches your skin type. Cleansing sets the foundation for the rest of your routine, ensuring your skin is clean and ready to absorb other products. Here’s some info that might seem surprising: you don’t need to wash your face with a cleanser every morning, even if it’s gentle. Depending on your skin type, rinsing your face with just water after waking up is often sufficient. Try it and see if your skin feels less stripped and dry in the morning. After all, it deserves a break too! Toner Next, apply a toner to restore your skin’s natural balance and refine your pores. While some may find this step confusing or redundant, the purpose of a toner is to remove any remaining impurities and prepare the skin to absorb serums and moisturisers more effectively. Depending on your skin’s needs, toners can either hydrate or exfoliate, and despite popular belief, it’s not necessary to use a cotton pad to apply the product to the skin (there are always toner pads for that). Remember to reduce waste! Serum The third step involves applying a serum that caters to your specific skin concern. Serums are concentrated treatments with active ingredients designed to target specific issues, such as fine lines, dark spots, or uneven texture. If you’re itching to see a noticeable difference in your skin, this is an unskippable step. We recommend using a vitamin C serum every morning as it brightens the skin, evens out the complexion, and provides antioxidant protection against free radicals. Regular use of a serum like this can improve skin texture and promote a healthy and radiant glow. You can also alternate your serums each morning, using a vitamin C serum one day and a hydrating serum, like one with hyaluronic acid, the next. Moisturiser Speaking of hydration, we can’t overstate its importance at any time of day, as it keeps your skin plump and healthy throughout. In the mornings, apply a lightweight moisturiser that locks in moisture without clogging your pores, such as a gel moisturiser. The goal is to provide your skin with the hydration it needs to stay smooth and supple. Even if you have applied a hydrating serum beforehand, it’s simply not enough to ward off dry and flaky skin that everyone dreads — only moisturisers can do that. Sunscreen The most important step of your morning routine is applying sunscreen, especially in hot and sunny Singapore. UV rays are the leading cause of premature aging and skin damage, making sunscreen a must, no matter what. Even on cloudy or rainy days, applying sunscreen is necessary if you want your skin to appear youthful for as long as possible. Those pesky UV rays can affect your skin regardless. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays — we recommend nothing less than SPF 50 PA+++. Don’t forget to apply it on your neck and decolletage too, as well as invest in body sunscreen. Nighttime Skincare Routine A nighttime skincare routine focuses on repair and rejuvenation, as your skin enters its recovery phase while you sleep. This makes it the ideal time to use targeted treatments and nourishing products to address specific concerns and restore your skin’s vitality. A consistent nighttime regimen not only helps tackle issues like dryness, dullness, or fine lines but also preps your skin for the next day. Another pro tip on applying skincare: When rubbing your products into the skin, use gentle, upward motions to avoid unnecessary tugging. Stick to your routine every night, as consistency is key to seeing results. Over time, you’ll notice visible improvements in your skin’s texture, clarity, and overall radiance. Double Cleanse Although cleanser is optional in the morning, it’s essential at night to remove makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and excess oil that have built up throughout the day. We recommend double cleansing, starting with a makeup remover followed by a gentle cleanser, to thoroughly clean your skin without stripping its natural oils. Skipping either step often leaves your skin inadequately cleansed. Begin by using your preferred makeup remover, whether it’s micellar water, a cleansing balm, or oil, to eliminate all the nasties your face has accumulated during the day. Then, follow up with your everyday cleanser to refresh and balance your skin. Exfoliator Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, which can build up over time and lead to dullness, clogged pores, and uneven texture. By exfoliating, you help reveal fresh and healthy skin underneath, allowing your other skincare products to penetrate more effectively. We recommend using chemical exfoliants at night instead of physical ones. This gently dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells together, rather than scrubbing the skin which can lead to micro-tears. For best results, exfoliate two to three times a week, but be cautious — overdoing it can irritate your skin and weaken its protective barrier. Serums Nighttime is the perfect opportunity to drench your skin with treatment products with active ingredients that work while you sleep. Options like retinoids, peptides, and spot treatments are particularly effective during this recovery phase. Be sure to tailor your nighttime treatments to your skin’s specific needs. The best nighttime serums include retinoids that can help reduce fine lines, refine skin texture, and combat acne, but if you’re new to them, start with a low concentration and gradually build up to prevent irritation. Peptides are another excellent choice as they support skin repair, enhance elasticity, and promote a firmer and healthier complexion. Moisturiser Be sure to lock in all the skincare goodness with a rich moisturiser or night cream. Nighttime moisturisers are typically heavier than their daytime counterparts, providing deeper hydration and nourishment. Instead of daytime gel moisturisers, think thicker cream textures. Look for formulas with ingredients like shea butter or ceramides to support your skin’s natural repair process. Eye Cream Yes, eye creams are applied after moisturiser, not before. While some may consider this step unnecessary, eye creams are specifically formulated to target concerns like puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. We promise that they’re not just glorified moisturisers! Remember that signs of ageing typically manifest around the eye area first so it requires extra TLC. To apply, gently pat the cream around your eyes using your ring finger, as it applies the least pressure. It’s important to apply delicate care to this sensitive area as it’s considered to be the thinnest skin on your body, more prone to wear and tear. Optional Steps Since the nighttime is the best time to pamper your skin, it’s the best time to add in all those extra skincare products you’ve been dying to use. Whether it’s adding a hydrating mask, facial oil, gua sha, or other overnight treatments, this is your time to give your skin the care it deserves. While it’s tempting to use every product, remember that a balanced routine with occasional extras is the best way to maintain health and glowing skin. Simplicity is key! |