Bucks &amp; Oxon


<p>The sun is finally shining (mostly) and we’re coming out of our winter caves, possibly feeling and looking a little grey. We know we need to step up the SPF, but what other skincare changes should we consider when the weather gets warmer? And which skincare treatments are actually worth our well earned cash and precious time? We booked in with three local Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire based skincare experts for the lowdown on how to get glowing skin in spring 2026, plus what to ditch. Minimise TikTok and tune into the pros in the know.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emma-rothery-clinic-founder-and-advancer-skin-practitioner-at-era-clinic-thame">Emma Rothery, Clinic Founder and Advancer Skin Practitioner at <a href="https://eraclinics.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ERA Clinic</a>, Thame</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Spring-skin-trends.jpg" alt="Spring 2026 skincare trends" class="wp-image-203485" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Spring-skin-trends.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Spring-skin-trends-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Spring-skin-trends-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Spring-skin-trends-400x267.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image: Fleur Kaan</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-barrier-first">Skin barrier first</h3>



<p>Google searches for ‘skin barrier repair’ have soared by 30% over the past year, and for good reason according to Emma. “This is a trend worth heeding. Glowing skin always starts with a healthy skin barrier [the skin’s outermost protective layer]. If that’s compromised, then skincare and skin treatments will underperform.” So, how best to big up your skin barrier if yours is below par? “Look for skincare rich in ceramides, niacinamide and peptides to rebuild strength and resilience”, says Emma. A consistent skincare routine that focuses on this skin-barrier strengthening trio, plus SPF, will bolster your skin’s foundation, meaning that any active formulas or treatments you add in from there will work their magic far more effectively.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opt-for-lighter-textures">Opt for lighter textures</h3>



<p>“Winter skin is usually dull, dehydrated and a bit sluggish, so spring is about waking it back up – gently. I’d move away from heavier creams and switch them up for lighter, more active formulas. Think plumping hyaluronic acid serums for hydration, vitamin C for brightness and a little gentle exfoliation for radiance. This goes for SPF too. Textures are brilliantly light now, and they become even more essential as we move into the new season.”&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimise-don-t-correct">Optimise, don’t correct</h3>



<p>“In clinic, we focus on restoring skin health first and foremost, then we build on results from there by slowly ‘layering’ on more advanced treatments. We’re more mindful of sun exposure at this time of year so treatments are carefully selected and often combined for better results with minimal downtime.</p>



<p>“Treatments that support the skin’s own repair processes and improve underlying structure – rather than just surface change – is where things are heading. There’s a big demand for needle-free rejuvenating technologies like <a href="https://eraclinics.co.uk/emface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EMFACE</a> that offer a subtle, natural ‘facelift’ by working on underlying facial structures, as well as boosting skin quality. It’s a more holistic approach and the results are natural-looking and long-lasting!”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jo-schmid-founder-of-mediskin-beauty-clinic-wendover-nbsp">Jo Schmid, Founder of <a href="https://www.mediskinbeauty.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mediskin Beauty Clinic</a>, Wendover&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1499" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Jo-and-Louisa.jpg" alt="Jo and Louisa Medskin beauty wendover" class="wp-image-203477" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Jo-and-Louisa.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Jo-and-Louisa-534x800.jpg 534w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Jo-and-Louisa-667x1000.jpg 667w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Jo-and-Louisa-267x400.jpg 267w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jo and colleague Louisa, photo by<a href="https://zoecphotography.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Zoe C Photography </a></figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ace-lit-from-within-skin">ACE ‘lit from within’ skin</h3>



<p>“Conversations are shifting from talking about ‘anti-ageing’ to focusing on ‘oxidative ageing’. More and more is being understood about the impact of UV exposure, pollution and stress on the skin and how these factors affect how quickly our skin ages. It can be tricky to avoid all of these when you’re leading a busy life, so as well as protecting skin with daily SPF (which also strengthens your skin barrier and enhances all the good work of other skincare), take an ACE approach. </p>



<p>&#8220;That means focusing on vitamins A (retinol), C and E, that together are key players in combating oxidative ageing and central to any modern skincare routine. Don’t get too swept up in complicated regimes or 10-step layering: a simplified routine focused around these three actives will both help skin to repair itself, and get you closer to your skin goals.”&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retinol-rebranded">Retinol, rebranded</h3>



<p>Speaking of vitamin A, 2026’s retinoid offering is smarter and more ‘suits-all’ than ever. “New generation retinoids are gentler formulations that are lower in strength and designed for more frequent use with minimal irritation. They’re also enhanced with soothing boosters like microalgae for radiant results without the risk of adverse reactions.” Jo rates <a href="https://uk.alumiermd.com/collections/retinol" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alumier MD’s range of slow-release retinol serums</a>, and keep your eyes peeled for a full Muddy retinol edit, landing soon.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collagen-banking-nbsp">Collagen banking&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Collagen is still a real buzzword in the beauty industry and collagen production naturally begins to decline in our mid-twenties (what joy). A Feb 2026 study by researchers from <a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk/news/collagen-benefits-skin-but-not-performance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anglia Ruskin University</a> showed that collagen supplements offer &#8220;legitimate skin gains by improving skin tone and moisture&#8221; according to lead investigator, Prof Lee Smith, but they aren’t the only way to bank collagen and they&#8217;re can&#8217;t prevent or reverse wrinkles. </p>



<p>“Focus on ingredients and treatments proven to stimulate collagen production” advises Jo. “A daily vitamin C serum, especially in water-based L-ascorbic acid form at around 10 – 15% concentration, will help you to build and maintain collagen production over time, rather than scrambling for a collagen ‘fix’ later. Collagen-boosting treatments like microneedling give your natural levels a leg up too&#8221;. Speaking of which…</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microneedling-myth-busting">Microneedling myth busting</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1499" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Mediskin-beauty-facial.jpg" alt="Microneedling " class="wp-image-203479" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Mediskin-beauty-facial.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Mediskin-beauty-facial-534x800.jpg 534w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Mediskin-beauty-facial-667x1000.jpg 667w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Mediskin-beauty-facial-267x400.jpg 267w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A microneedling treatment at Mediskin Beauty Clinic, photo by<a href="https://zoecphotography.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Zoe C Photography </a></figcaption></figure>



<p>“Microneedling also triggers skin to rev up collagen levels; it can increase collagen production by up to 400%! It’s one of the most requested treatments in clinic and for good reason: results are long-term and cumulative, but it’s worth pointing out that it’s not a quick win.</p>



<p>“Ignore the ‘more trauma = better’ narrative on social media; there’s an idea that you need to leave a treatment looking red and inflamed, but you don’t! In fact, overly-aggressive microneedling can slow down results and cause havoc for your skin barrier. What you’re after is ‘controlled micro-trauma’ – just enough to stimulate collagen without overwhelming the skin. The sweet spot is consistency, not intensity. This is why it’s best to leave microneedling to the pros rather than trying it at home.</p>



<p>“See it as a future ‘skinvestment’ rather than a treatment for instant gratification. It’s all about prolonging your skin longevity and it’s chiming with what clients want: they’re no longer asking to look 10 years younger and there’s a brilliant mindset shift around making skin look and feel better both now, and down the line.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-led-is-a-quiet-overachiever-nbsp">LED is a quiet overachiever&nbsp;</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1499" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Mediskin-beauty-LED.jpg" alt="Mediskin beauty LED treatment" class="wp-image-203473" style="aspect-ratio:0.66711140760507;width:640px;height:auto" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Mediskin-beauty-LED.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Mediskin-beauty-LED-534x800.jpg 534w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Mediskin-beauty-LED-667x1000.jpg 667w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Mediskin-beauty-LED-267x400.jpg 267w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A Dermalux LED treatment at Mediskin Beauty Clinic, photo by<a href="https://zoecphotography.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Zoe C Photography </a></figcaption></figure>



<p>“It’s rare for me not to perform a treatment that incorporates LED technology now” says Jo. “It boosts skin healing and rejuvenation, it’s suitable for all skin types and conditions, it’s completely non-invasive and it calms inflammation post-treatment or if you’re experiencing an acne flare-up (common in spring when humidity levels can skyrocket)”. But the benefits of LED light therapy are now known to be more than skin deep. “It supports relaxation, helps to regulate stress responses and even a 10 minute session can increase your body’s ‘happy hormones’” reveals Jo. Again, in-clinic treatments have the edge here, as professional LED machines like the Dermalux Flex are more powerful and effective, but consistent use of at-home LED masks (three to four times a week) is great for maintenance and lower-level skin support”.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glass-skin-irl">Glass skin, IRL</h3>



<p>“Even if clients aren’t specifically asking for ‘glass skin’, that juicy, radiant look is still a really popular goal. Obviously the skin you see on social media is often heavily filtered, whereas in real life we need to address how the skin functions to smooth texture and get it glowing naturally. As well as the ACE approach above, including peptides in your skincare routine can amplify results; they enhance skin elasticity (making it more ‘bouncy’), signal skin to produce more collagen, hydrate and help to repair damage. There’s a reason they’re one of the most sought-after skincare ingredients!”.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In addition to investing in a peptide serum (as a former beauty director I’ll sing the praises of the spendy but sensational <a href="https://www.skinceuticals.co.uk/en_GB/p-tiox-anti-wrinkle-serum/S123.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Skinceuticals P-Tiox Serum</a> until the cows come home), adding in a multi-molecular weight hyaluronic acid can be a big skin win too. A multi-weight approach ensures that plumping moisture-mergent hyaluronic acid penetrates skin effectively, and you don’t need to shell out in this department. <a href="https://www.spacenk.com/uk/skincare/treatment/serums/quadruple-hyaluronic-acid-serum-5-MUK200036506.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Naturium Quadruple Hyaluronic Acid Serum 5%</a> comes in under £20 and is hyaluronic acid to the power of four. Smart stuff.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lee-harrison-master-facialist-at-cotswolds-based-lucie-app-nbsp">Lee Harrison, master facialist at Cotswolds-based <a href="https://www.lucieapp.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lucie app&nbsp;</a></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1500" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Lucie-FACIAL.jpeg" alt="lucie app facial cotswolds" class="wp-image-203470" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Lucie-FACIAL.jpeg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Lucie-FACIAL-533x800.jpeg 533w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Lucie-FACIAL-667x1000.jpeg 667w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/bucksoxon/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2026/04/Lucie-FACIAL-267x400.jpeg 267w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A soothing lucie app facial </figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peel-back-the-layers">Peel back the layers</h3>



<p>This doesn’t just apply to <a href="https://bucksoxon.muddystilettos.co.uk/gotta-have-it/buckinghamshire-boutique-spring-fashion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spring fashion</a>, but skin treatments too. “Skin can exit winter with a build-up of dead skill cells” says Lee. “As well as accelerating cell turnover and collagen production with microneedling followed by LED therapy, clinical chemical peels can brighten and refine skin texture, making skin look instantly fresher for spring. Medical-grade skin peels are dominating our bookings at the moment as they offer such visible results and are great to incorporate before a big event [more on that below]. I follow peels with reparative skincare (I love <a href="https://www.eskcare.com/collections/sensitive-skin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESK’s range</a>) for faster healing and better outcomes.”&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pre-event-prep-101">Pre-event prep 101</h3>



<p>Whether you’re <a href="https://bucksoxon.muddystilettos.co.uk/life/weddings/ding-dong-this-seasons-wedding-trends-for-stylish-modern-couples/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">getting married in 2026 </a>or have a special occasion in the diary later in the year, Lee recommends getting a skin prep plan sorted at least six months before the big day. “Start with a consistent at-home routine including retinoids, vitamin C and barrier support, and gradually introduce targeted treatments. These might be monthly microneedling and/or chemical peels to address texture, scarring and pigmentation, and boost collagen” he says. </p>



<p>“Then at the three-month-mark, continue with microneedling but switch to gentler peels and hydration-focused treatments. The final four weeks before a big event are for maintenance only; a hydrating, calming facial 3 – 5 days prior, with no aggressive actives. If you’re based in the Cotswolds and using the Lucie App, you’ll work with the same therapist throughout, which is great for tracking progress and adjusting your clinical treatment plan as you go.” The skin of your dreams is loading.&nbsp;</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-in-the-mood-for-more">IN THE MOOD FOR MORE?</h2>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://muddystilettos.co.uk/wellbeing/shopping/cool-new-wellness-tech-2026/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smart next-gen wellness tech for 2026</a></li>



<li><a href="https://muddystilettos.co.uk/wellbeing/nutrition/ready-to-glow-3-breakfasts-worth-getting-out-of-bed-for/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ready to glow? 3 healthy breakfasts worth getting out of bed for</a></li>



<li><a href="https://muddystilettos.co.uk/lifestyle/beauty-lifestyle/best-value-hydrating-concealers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Glow givers: Hydrating concealers that fake eight hours’ sleep&nbsp;</a></li>
</ul>


The spring 2026 skin trends to know, according to the pros

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