When it comes to skincare, the internet is a double-edged sword. One moment, you’re discovering a game-changing tip, and the next, you’re wondering if rubbing lemon juice on your face will really get rid of dark spots (spoiler: it won’t, and it’ll probably do more harm than good). With so many influencers, beauty gurus, and self-proclaimed skincare experts sharing advice, it’s easy to fall for trends that seem too good to be true—and, more often than not, they are.
From viral TikTok hacks to age-old beauty tips passed down through generations, there’s no shortage of skincare advice that promises glowing, flawless skin. The problem? Not all advice is good advice. Some of the most commonly believed skincare myths can actually damage your skin barrier, accelerate ageing, or cause irritation that’s completely avoidable.
So, let’s clear up the confusion. We’re busting five of the biggest skincare myths so you can make informed choices that actually benefit your skin—without the guesswork or misinformation.
Myth 1: You Should Exfoliate Every Day
Scrubbing your skin every day might feel like the fast track to baby-soft, glowing skin, but in reality, it’s a recipe for dryness, irritation, and unexpected breakouts. Your skin naturally produces oils that keep it hydrated, resilient, and balanced, and over-exfoliating strips away this protection, leaving your complexion more vulnerable than before. Instead of that fresh, radiant glow you were hoping for, you could end up with redness, flakiness, or even breakouts—ironically, the exact issues you were trying to fix!
The key to effective exfoliation is balance. Most skin types only need exfoliation one to three times a week to slough away dead skin cells without compromising the skin barrier. If your skin leans oily, you may be able to exfoliate more often, while those with dry or sensitive skin should take a gentler approach.
The type of exfoliant you use matters just as much—gentle chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs, or fine-grain scrubs, work best to reveal fresh, glowing skin without causing irritation or micro-tears. The goal isn’t to scrub your skin raw—it’s to work with your skin’s natural renewal process, keeping it hydrated, smooth, and healthy.
Myth 2: You Only Need SPF on Sunny Days
If you only reach for sunscreen when the sun is blazing, it’s time for a reality check. UV rays don’t take a day off, and neither should your SPF. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays still penetrate through—meaning your skin is still at risk whether it’s raining, overcast, or you’re sitting by a window indoors. These sneaky rays are responsible for premature ageing, dark spots, fine lines, and even skin cancer, making daily sun protection an absolute must.
The fix? Make sun protection a non-negotiable part of your morning routine—365 days a year. A broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) will shield your skin from both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays, helping to keep it looking healthy and youthful.
And no, the SPF in your foundation isn’t enough—you need a dedicated sunscreen layer to do the job properly. Think of sunscreen like brushing your teeth—it’s a simple daily habit that protects you in the long run. Your future self (and your glow) will thank you!
Try a SPF BB Cream for a light, tinted coverage giving you sun protection with an added glow.
Myth 3: Eye Creams Don’t Work
Some say eye creams are just overpriced moisturisers, but here’s the thing—the skin around your eyes is different from the rest of your face. It’s thinner, more delicate, and quicker to show signs of fatigue, dehydration, and ageing. That’s why it needs a little extra TLC. Whether you’re dealing with puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines, the right eye cream can make a real difference in keeping your under-eye area looking fresh and radiant.
The trick? Choosing the right ingredients. Look for hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and plump, caffeine to de-puff and reduce under-eye bags, and peptides to boost collagen and smooth out fine lines. While no eye cream can completely erase the effects of a sleepless night (unfortunately, coffee can only do so much), a good one, such as the Moisture+ Pumping Eye Gel can brighten, hydrate, and refresh, so you look more “I woke up like this” and less “I haven’t slept in days.”
Myth 4: You Don’t Need Retinol Until Your 50s
If you’re waiting until your 50s to start using retinol, you’re missing out on one of skincare’s biggest game-changers. Retinol isn’t just for reversing wrinkles—it’s for preventing them in the first place. Starting in your mid-to-late 20s gives your skin a head start by boosting collagen production, increasing cell turnover, and keeping your complexion plump, smooth, and youthful. Think of it as an investment in your future skin—one that will pay off with fewer fine lines, improved texture, and a natural glow as you age.
The key? Start slow and stay consistent. Retinol can be potent, so begin with a low concentration a couple of nights a week and gradually increase as your skin builds tolerance. Try a gentle overnight cream, such as the Clear Skincare Vitamin A Renewal. Expect some flaking or mild irritation at first—that’s normal—but don’t give up too soon. And most importantly, never skip SPF! Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. With the right routine, retinol can help keep your skin looking fresh, firm, and radiant—well before fine lines even have a chance to appear.
Myth 5: Skincare Should Work Instantly
If you expect to wake up with flawless skin after one night of using a new serum, we’ve got some tough love for you—skincare is a marathon, not a sprint. While some products can deliver an instant hydration boost or a temporary glow, true skin transformations—whether it’s fading dark spots, clearing acne, or smoothing fine lines—take time, consistency, and the right ingredients to really work their magic.
The secret? Consistency. Just like going to the gym, you won’t see results after one session, but stick with it, and over time, you’ll notice real, long-lasting improvements. Depending on the concern, it can take weeks or even months to see the full effects of a product. That’s why patience is key—giving up too soon could mean missing out on incredible results. Keep up your routine, trust the process, and remember—good things (and great skin) come to those who wait!
Why Choose Clear Skincare Clinics?
Great skin isn’t just about luck—it’s about the right care, expert knowledge, and science-backed treatments that deliver real results. At Clear Skincare Clinics, we take the guesswork out of skincare, offering tailored solutions, advanced treatments, and doctor-developed products designed to help you achieve your healthiest, most radiant skin. Whether you’re tackling acne, targeting fine lines, or simply looking for a glow boost, we provide effective, results-driven skincare that works for you.
With over 60 clinics across Australia, expert skincare is always within reach. Our highly trained therapists, doctors, and nurses bring years of experience to every treatment, ensuring your skin gets the professional, personalised care it deserves. From cutting-edge clinical treatments to customised skincare plans, we don’t believe in quick fixes or empty promises—just real solutions backed by science. Whatever your skin goals, we’re here to help you achieve them with confidence.
FOR THE LOVE OF ME
Born from a history of clinically treating acne, Clear Skincare Clinics celebrates the role good skin has on the individual. From their therapists, highly trained doctors, and nurses, and by offering the most advanced clinical treatments and effective skincare products, they believe one thing: Skin care is an act of Self-care. Purpose. Pressure. Fitting in. Standing out. We’re told we should care about skincare for every reason under the sun except the most important one of all: Self-care. In its purest sense, caring for your skin is an act of self-care.
Like walking in the sunshine, brushing your hair or going for a run. Taking care of your needs, not somebody else’s. It’s making choices that help you feel comfortable in your skin. And you know what? That looks different on everyone.
With a refreshingly simple and personalised approach, affordable treatments and a focus on real results alongside doctor-developed skincare across their 60+ clinics, Clear Skincare Clinics makes self-care pure joy. It’s not for the compliments or trying to meet an impossible beauty standard. It’s not for anyone else but you. Caring for your skin is something you should do – For the Love of Me!
