At 60, Singaporean model and photographer Chuando Tan continues to attract attention for his youthful appearance. Tan first became a global internet sensation in 2017, when photographs of him went viral and many people were surprised to learn that he was 51 at the time. Years later, his appearance continues to draw interest. Tan does not present his routine as a miracle solution to ageing. Instead, he has spoken about diet, exercise, sleep, genetics and consistency as factors that have shaped his lifestyle over the years. In a 2025 interview with Vogue Singapore, Tan also spoke about how he views getting older. “Even as you grow older, you have to keep the sexiness in you,” he said. “Not for others, but for yourself.”
From male model to fashion photographer
Tan began his modelling career in the 1980s and 1990s and became one of the recognisable male models in Singapore and across Asia. He later moved behind the camera and established himself as a fashion photographer. According to Vogue Singapore, Tan began photography in his late 20s after spending more than a decade in front of the camera. His photography career also saw him become one of the early adopters of digital imaging and high-level retouching in Singapore fashion photography. But his second round of global attention came in 2017, when his Instagram photographs spread widely online. At the time, he was 51. Tan later told Vogue Singapore that he never felt insecure about his age. “I’ve never felt insecure about my age,” he said. “When I went viral at 51, everything still felt the same. I was just enjoying life as I always had.”
His diet: Eggs, chicken, fish and vegetables
“Seventy percent is diet and the other thirty percent is exercise.”
Tan has described his diet as an important part of his routine. In an interview with Fiftiers, he summed up his approach in one sentence: “Seventy percent is diet and the other thirty percent is exercise.” His breakfast typically begins with six eggs, although he eats only two of the yolks, along with a glass of milk. Depending on the day, he may also have avocado, berries, oatmeal or a protein shake. Lunch is generally simple. His meals include grilled or steamed chicken or fish, rice and vegetables. Fish soup or broth may also feature in his meals. Tan avoids ultra-processed foods and drinks plenty of water. He also avoids coffee and alcohol and does not smoke. Fiftiers reported that he takes vitamin C supplements as part of his routine. His approach is not described as an extreme restriction diet. Instead, he has stressed eating healthily whenever possible and maintaining a consistent routine.
Strength training and cardio
Exercise is the other major part of Tan’s routine. He does around 30 minutes of strength training three to five times a week. His workouts include compound movements such as squats, lunges, push-ups and pull-ups. He also incorporates low-intensity cardio, including brisk walking on a treadmill and swimming. His fitness routine is something he has maintained for decades rather than a habit adopted only after becoming famous online.
Sleep and his evening routine
Image courtesy: Instagram/@chuando_chuandoandfrey
Tan also pays attention to his sleep schedule and the timing of his meals. He aims to go to bed around 11 pm and finishes his final meal at least five hours before bedtime. He prefers spending time without screens before sleeping and uses the evening to relax. These habits are part of the routine he has described alongside his diet and exercise rather than a separate anti-ageing treatment.
A simple skincare routine
Tan’s skincare routine is also relatively basic. He uses a gentle cleanser and moisturiser rather than describing an elaborate series of products or procedures. He has said that he does not rely on cosmetic surgery.For Tan, looking youthful is not the only part of ageing that matters. Speaking to Vogue Singapore, he said, “Even as you grow older, you have to keep the sexiness in you, not for others, but for yourself.” He has also spoken about the importance of staying present and accepting the passage of time. In the same interview, he reflected on friends and collaborators he had lost and said, “It made me realise that life can be taken away in a minute.”
