Skincare and health tips every woman in her 30s should know

Everyone knows the importance of a clean face to remove the dirt and grime collected over the day. Dr Lawrence Khoo, Consultant Dermatologist at Farrer Park Hospital, advocates using a good and gentle cleanser: “The skin is usually not too dry at this age group, so a gentle cleanser for normal skin would usually suffice.”

In this weather, women must also constantly remember to use a good sunblock. According to Dr Khoo, “Pigmentation issues are common problems among ladies, so a good sunblock is important. Use one from a reputable company, with sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 to 50, PA (protection against UVA) of 2++ or 3+++.” He recommends applying sufficient quantity and reapplying the sunblock after a few hours.

Green Tea contains antioxidants to prevent infections and reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. “It contains phytonutrients (catechins) that are high in antioxidants for cancer prevention and helps slow down the ageing process,” Grace says, “In addition, the caffeine in green tea enhances your metabolism when you are on a diet and regular exercise regime to help you lose your excessive fat.” She recommends a cup of green tea a day, and to drink it 1 to 2 hours after your meals.

Lemons and oranges are rich in Vitamin C to strengthen the immune system to fight free radicals, prevent infections and inflammations. They’re also good skin boosters!

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are quite common, with one in five women experiencing a UTI at least once a year. Nutritious cranberries contain PACs (proanthocyanidins) which are known to help maintain urinary tract health, so add it to your daily snack routine.

Cut down on sugary treats and snacks. Almonds make for a nutritious substitute, as they’re rich in Vitamin E and are known to stimulate the production of antioxidants and antibodies. “Almonds help to lower LDL cholesterol (bad) by protecting you from getting cardiovascular diseases. They are also good for your brain and cognitive functions,” says Grace.

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This article was first published in the Singapore Women’s Weekly.