Is drinking more water really the secret to glowing skin? And do you still need SPF when the sun is hidden behind the clouds? With so much skincare advice shared online, it’s easy to get swept up in well-meaning tips that don’t always work – and some myths can even do more harm than good.
At Appearance Based Medicine in Marlow, aesthetic nurse prescriber Clare McLoughlin RGN INP draws on over 20 years of clinical experience to help patients cut through the noise. Her focus is on offering education, clarity and personalised care. She takes the time to ensure every decision about aesthetic treatments is based on expert knowledge and your skin’s individual needs.
In this blog Clare addresses three of the most common skincare myths she hears in her clinic. From what hydrating your skin actually means to the importance of SPF and why it’s worth considering preventative aesthetic treatments, Clare shares expert advice that puts your skin’s health first.
Myth 1: ‘Drinking plenty of water will keep your skin fully hydrated’
It’s one of the most common skincare tips out there – ‘drink more water and your skin will stay plump and hydrated’. Staying hydrated by drinking enough water is essential for your overall health but it doesn’t necessarily mean your skin is getting all the moisture it needs at a cellular level.
Clare explains, “You can drink lots of water, but if the skin barrier is compromised or your skin is lacking hyaluronic acid and collagen, it won’t retain that moisture efficiently.” This is especially true in summer, when more sun, heat and environmental factors can leave skin feeling dry, dull, or tight – even if you’re well-hydrated from within.
Targeted skin treatments can help with replenishing hydration from the inside out. Clare often recommends Profhilo®, an injectable treatment packed with hyaluronic acid, designed to boost hydration, collagen and elastin for smoother, firmer skin. Unlike dermal fillers, Profhilo® doesn’t alter the shape or structure of the face. Instead, it improves the skin’s texture and ability to retain moisture, leaving it looking smoother, hydrated and more glowy.
Alongside in-clinic treatments, Clare often shares simple, evidence-based tips to support skin hydration from the inside out. One example she regularly discusses during initial consultations is adding a small pinch of Celtic salt to water, which can help improve cellular hydration by supporting mineral balance and absorption. “It’s a simple trick that can make a big difference,” says Clare. Skin hydration is about so much more than drinking water, it’s important to understand your skin’s specific needs through practical advice and treatments.
Myth 2: ‘You don’t need to wear SPF if it’s cloudy’
On a cloudy day it can sometimes be tempting to forgo the sunscreen and therefore the SPF. But it’s one of the most common skincare misconceptions Clare hears in clinic – and one that can quietly impact skin health over time. “UVA rays are present all year round,” Clare explains. “They’re not blocked by cloud cover, and they’re one of the main causes of premature ageing. Even on dull or overcast days, your skin is still exposed.”
Unlike UVB rays, which cause sunburn, UVA rays penetrate more deeply into the skin, gradually breaking down collagen and elastin. Over time, this can contribute to fine lines, wrinkles, and a loss of skin firmness. That’s why Clare encourages daily SPF use, no matter the weather – it’s one of the most important habits for long-term skin health. It’s especially important after treatments like wrinkle relaxing treatments, Profhilo®, or ENDYMED Intensif, when the skin can be a bit more sensitive to sunlight. Protecting your results is just as important as having the treatment in the first place.
Many patients worry that sunscreen will feel greasy or clog their pores, but Clare regularly helps people find options that suit their skin type and lifestyle. With so many formulations now available – from lightweight gels to hydrating creams – it’s easier to find one that suits your skin. Using SPF is a simple step in your skincare routine, but one that plays a huge role in how your skin looks and ages over time.
Myth 3: ‘Aesthetic treatments are only needed once ageing is visible’
It’s a common assumption that aesthetic treatments are something to think about only once fine lines and wrinkles are visible. But delaying until signs of ageing are more advanced isn’t always the most effective approach. Starting earlier with subtle, preventative treatments can help maintain smoother skin for longer – without dramatically changing how you look.
Clare regularly sees patients who want to stay ahead of the ageing process, supporting their skin in a way that feels natural and manageable. “It’s not about doing everything at once,” she explains. “Often, the best results come from starting small and building a plan around your skin’s needs.” Wrinkle relaxing treatments are a good example. Used early, they can gently soften movement in targeted areas, helping to prevent lines from becoming deeply etched. But it’s not just about wrinkles – changes in hydration, elasticity and skin quality begin gradually, and a considered approach from the outset often leads to better long-term results.
That’s why Clare always begins with an in-depth consultation. Taking the time to understand your goals, assess your skin and facial dynamics, and offer honest, expert-led guidance is a key part of the process. You might be ready to start treatment now, or simply want to plan ahead – either way, getting professional advice early on gives you the confidence to take care of your skin in a way that’s tailored to you.
Conclusion
When it comes to skincare and aesthetic treatments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by advice, especially when some of it is based more on trends than truth. That’s why Clare’s approach at Appearance Based Medicine is always rooted in education, clinical expertise, and honest conversations.
From understanding what your skin really needs to knowing when and how to act, the right support makes all the difference. Some patients come with specific concerns in mind while others simply wish to feel more confident in their skin. Clare offers expert guidance either way, with tailored advice and a personalised treatment plan after meeting with her. If you’d like to separate fact from fiction and find out what your skin truly needs, book your initial consultation here and benefit from Clare’s 20+ years of experience in the aesthetic field.
