News

At Southface Dermatology Clinic, we believe exceptional patient care starts with an exceptional team.

Our recent Summer Team Day was the perfect opportunity to step away from our busy clinics, reflect on everything we’ve achieved together and look ahead to the exciting future of Southface.

The day brought together our entire team from across our clinics for a valuable mix of clinical education, business planning and well-deserved team building.

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A Morning Dedicated to Clinical Excellence

Patient safety and delivering the highest standards of care remain at the heart of everything we do.

The morning was focused on clinical governance, allowing our consultants, nurses and wider clinical team to review best practice, discuss patient pathways and ensure we continue to provide the safest, most effective treatments possible.

Clinical governance plays a vital role in maintaining quality within healthcare. It gives us the opportunity to review our processes, share learning, discuss new evidence and ensure every patient receives care that reflects the latest clinical standards.

These sessions also encourage collaboration across the team, allowing everyone to contribute ideas and experiences that ultimately enhance the patient journey.

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Planning for the Future

Alongside our clinical discussions, we held operational meetings focused on the continued development of Southface.

As our clinics continue to grow, it’s important that we regularly review how we work, identify opportunities for improvement and ensure we’re continually enhancing the services we provide.

Topics throughout the day included:

• Future service development
• Improving the patient journey
• Clinic operations
• Team collaboration
• New treatment opportunities
• Business growth and innovation

These strategic planning sessions help ensure Southface continues to evolve while maintaining the personal, patient-focused care that our clinic is known for.

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Building a Stronger Team

While professional development is incredibly important, so is taking time to celebrate the people who make Southface such a special place to work.

After a productive morning, the team enjoyed spending quality time together outside of the clinic.

The afternoon gave everyone the opportunity to relax, catch up with colleagues and strengthen the relationships that make our workplace so supportive.

A particular highlight was enjoying expertly crafted cocktails from Tipsy Parties, with bartender Kieran helping create a fantastic atmosphere for everyone.

It was the perfect way to celebrate another successful year and thank the team for their continued hard work and dedication.

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Looking Ahead

We’re incredibly proud of the passionate, knowledgeable and caring team we have at Southface.

As we continue to expand our services and invest in the latest dermatology treatments and technology, our commitment remains the same: to deliver consultant-led, evidence-based care with outstanding patient experience at the centre of everything we do.

A huge thank you to every member of the Southface team for their enthusiasm, dedication and professionalism, and to Tipsy Parties and Kieran for helping us finish the day in style.

Here’s to another exciting year of innovation, collaboration and delivering exceptional dermatology care across Dorset.

Southface Dermatology Clinic is celebrating the remarkable success of its largest-ever Free Mole Check Event, which welcomed more than 300 people from across Dorset and Hampshire for potentially life-saving skin cancer screenings.

The annual event was created to raise awareness of skin cancer, encourage people to seek expert advice about concerning moles and skin lesions, and highlight the importance of early diagnosis. This year’s event exceeded all expectations, with several melanomas identified and referred for urgent treatment.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the UK, and early diagnosis remains one of the most important factors in achieving successful treatment outcomes.

During the event, Southface’s experienced dermatology team assessed hundreds of moles and skin lesions, providing reassurance for many attendees while identifying several cases requiring urgent specialist care.

The discovery of multiple melanomas reinforces the importance of regular skin checks and seeking professional assessment when a mole changes in size, shape, colour, or appearance.

A Record-Breaking Community Event

More than 300 people attended the event, making it the largest Free Mole Check Event ever hosted by Southface Dermatology Clinic.

The event attracted individuals from across Dorset and Hampshire, many of whom had concerns about changing moles, new skin lesions, or a family history of skin cancer.

Dr Helen Robertshaw, Consultant Dermatologist and Founder of Southface Dermatology Clinic, said:

“We are absolutely delighted with the response to this year’s event. To have screened more than 300 people and identify several melanomas demonstrates exactly why these events are so important. Early diagnosis saves lives, and we are proud to be helping our local community access expert skin cancer advice.”

Supporting the British Skin Foundation

Alongside providing free skin cancer screenings, the event also raised an incredible £1,445 for the British Skin Foundation.

The funds raised will help support vital research into skin diseases, skin cancer prevention, treatment advancements, and patient education initiatives.

Dr Robertshaw added:

“The generosity of everyone who attended was incredible, and we are thrilled to have raised £1,445 for the British Skin Foundation. We would like to thank every patient, volunteer and member of our team who helped make the day such a success.”

Looking Ahead to an Even Bigger Event

Following the overwhelming success of this year’s event, Southface Dermatology Clinic has already confirmed plans for an even larger Free Mole Check Event next year.

With demand exceeding expectations, the clinic hopes to screen even more people and continue raising awareness of the importance of skin cancer prevention and early detection.

“The demand this year exceeded all expectations,” said Dr Robertshaw. “Next year will be even bigger, and we would encourage anyone interested in attending to join our mailing list so they can be among the first to hear when bookings open.”

Register Your Interest

If you would like priority notification when registration opens for next year’s Free Mole Check Event, we encourage you to register your interest via the Southface Dermatology Clinic website.

Together, we can continue raising awareness, promoting early detection, and helping to save lives through expert skin cancer screening.

Be among the first to hear about next year’s event by registering your interest today.

At Southface Dermatology Clinic, we believe that continuous education and hands-on training are essential to delivering the highest standard of patient care. Recently, our team had the opportunity to take part in an advanced Relife Threads training day, focusing on treatment planning, patient assessment and achieving natural-looking rejuvenation results.

The session provided valuable practical experience and clinical discussion, allowing our team to further develop their knowledge and confidence in the use of Relife Threads for facial rejuvenation and jawline enhancement.

What Are Relife Threads?

Relife Threads are an innovative, minimally invasive treatment designed to lift and support the tissues of the face while stimulating the body’s natural collagen production. This dual action provides an immediate lifting effect, with continued improvement over time as new collagen develops.

Relife Threads can be used to address:

• Jawline definition
• Jowls and lower face laxity
• Neck tightening
• Facial contouring
• Early signs of ageing

Many patients appreciate that the treatment offers visible results without the need for surgery, whilst maintaining a natural appearance.

A Hands-On Training Experience

As part of the training day, our clinicians worked through consultation techniques, facial assessment, treatment planning and thread placement strategies. The practical element of the session allowed the team to observe and discuss every stage of the patient journey, from initial assessment through to post-treatment care.

The session highlighted the importance of careful patient selection, facial anatomy knowledge and bespoke treatment planning to ensure safe, effective and natural-looking outcomes.

Why Ongoing Training Matters

Aesthetic medicine is continually evolving, and ongoing professional development ensures that our team remains up to date with the latest techniques and best practices.

By investing in advanced training opportunities, Southface Dermatology Clinic continues to provide patients with evidence-based treatments delivered with confidence, precision and safety.

Natural Rejuvenation Without Surgery

One of the key benefits of Relife Threads is their ability to create subtle lifting and tightening without the downtime associated with surgical procedures. Patients can enjoy improved facial definition and skin support while maintaining their natural features.

The treatment can be an excellent option for those noticing early jowl formation, softening of the jawline or mild skin laxity who are looking for a non-surgical solution.

Looking Ahead

Training days such as these are an important part of our commitment to clinical excellence. We would like to thank everyone involved for making the session such a valuable learning experience.

If you would like to find out whether Relife Threads could help improve your jawline definition or facial contours, our team would be delighted to discuss your options during a personalised consultation.

At Southface Dermatology Clinic, our focus is always on achieving natural-looking results that help you look refreshed, confident and like the best version of yourself.

At Southface Dermatology Clinic, we are committed to staying at the forefront of innovation in dermatology and aesthetic medicine. As part of this commitment, our Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Helen Robertshaw, recently attended the Cutera EMEA Advisory Board Meeting in Paris.

The event brought together leading dermatologists, aesthetic practitioners, and key industry partners from across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) to discuss the future of patient care, emerging technologies, and advancements in laser and energy-based treatments.

Hosted by Cutera, a global leader in aesthetic and dermatology technologies, the advisory board provided a valuable platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strategic discussion. Attendees explored how innovation, education, and clinical expertise can continue to enhance patient outcomes and support the delivery of safe, effective treatments.

Dr Robertshaw joined fellow experts in exchanging insights on current trends, challenges, and opportunities within dermatology and aesthetic medicine. The discussions focused on ensuring that patients continue to benefit from evidence-based treatments, cutting-edge technologies, and the highest standards of care.

Reflecting on the event, Dr Robertshaw said:

“It was a privilege to join colleagues and experts from across the EMEA region to share experiences and discuss the future of dermatological and aesthetic treatments. Collaboration and continued education are essential to advancing patient care, and events such as these provide an invaluable opportunity to learn from one another.”

As a clinic, we believe that ongoing professional development and involvement in international advisory boards help ensure that our patients have access to the latest innovations and best practices in dermatology.

We would like to thank Cutera for hosting such a valuable event and for bringing together an exceptional group of professionals dedicated to advancing patient care.

At Southface Dermatology Clinic, we remain committed to delivering expert, patient-centred care informed by the latest developments in dermatology and aesthetic medicine.

To learn more about the treatments available at Southface Dermatology Clinic, please contact our team or book a consultation today.

June is Acne Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness of one of the most common skin conditions affecting millions of people worldwide.

While acne is often associated with teenage years, it can affect people of all ages and can have a significant impact on both physical and emotional wellbeing. At Southface Dermatology Clinic, we understand that acne is more than just a cosmetic concern. It is a medical condition that deserves expert assessment and effective treatment.

What Is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become blocked with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. This can lead to a variety of skin lesions, including:

• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Red inflamed bumps
• Pustules
• Nodules
• Cysts

Acne most commonly affects the face, chest, shoulders, and back, and can range from mild occasional breakouts to severe, painful acne that may lead to permanent scarring.

What Causes Acne?

Acne develops due to a combination of factors, including:

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or certain medical conditions can increase oil production and trigger breakouts.

Excess Oil Production

Overactive sebaceous glands can produce excess oil, increasing the risk of blocked pores.

Genetics

Family history can play a significant role in the development of acne.

Bacteria and Inflammation

When pores become blocked, bacteria can multiply, leading to inflammation and visible spots.

Stress

While stress does not directly cause acne, it can contribute to flare-ups and worsen existing symptoms.

Acne Is More Than Skin Deep

Acne can affect confidence, self-esteem, and mental wellbeing at any age.

Many people feel embarrassed or frustrated by their skin, and severe acne can lead to long-term scarring if left untreated. Seeking professional advice early can help prevent both physical and emotional consequences.

When Should You Seek Professional Help?

If you are experiencing any of the following, it may be time to consult a dermatologist:

• Persistent acne that is not responding to over-the-counter products
• Painful cystic acne
• Acne that is leaving scars or dark marks
• Adult acne that continues despite treatment
• Acne that is affecting your confidence or quality of life

Advanced Acne Treatments at Southface Dermatology Clinic

At Southface Dermatology Clinic, we offer a range of evidence-based treatments tailored to your individual skin needs.

These may include:

• Prescription topical treatments
• Oral medications
• Hormonal therapies where appropriate
• Chemical peels
• Acne scar treatments
• Personalised skincare plans

We are also proud to offer AviClear®, the first and only FDA-cleared laser treatment designed specifically to treat acne at its source.

What Is AviClear®?

AviClear is a revolutionary laser treatment that targets the sebaceous glands responsible for producing oil within the skin. By addressing excess oil production, AviClear helps reduce acne without the need for long-term medication.

Benefits of AviClear include:

• Suitable for mild, moderate, and severe acne
• Drug-free treatment option
• Safe for all skin types
• Minimal downtime
• Targets acne at its source
• Long-lasting improvement in acne symptoms

For many patients, AviClear offers an exciting alternative to traditional acne treatments and can significantly improve both skin health and confidence.

You Are Not Alone

Acne affects millions of people across the UK every year, and help is available.

This Acne Awareness Month, we encourage anyone struggling with acne to seek professional advice. Early treatment can help prevent scarring, improve skin health, and restore confidence.

At Southface Dermatology Clinic, our expert dermatology team is here to provide personalised care and support every step of the way.

Book a Consultation

If you would like to learn more about acne treatments, including AviClear®, contact Southface Dermatology Clinic today and take the first step towards clearer, healthier skin.

As part of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Southface Dermatology Clinic is encouraging everyone to become more familiar with the warning signs of skin cancer and the importance of regularly checking their skin.

Early detection can save lives, and knowing what to look for is one of the most important steps you can take for your skin health.

One of the easiest and most effective ways to monitor moles and skin changes is by using the A to E guide for skin cancer detection.

What Is the A to E Guide?

The A to E guide helps identify common warning signs that may indicate a mole or skin lesion should be checked by a dermatologist.

A – Asymmetry

If one half of a mole does not match the other half in shape, size, or appearance, this could be a warning sign.

B – Border

Healthy moles usually have smooth, even borders. Be cautious of moles with irregular, ragged, blurred, or uneven edges.

C – Colour

A mole with multiple colours or uneven colouring should always be monitored carefully. Shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue within the same lesion can be concerning.

D – Diameter

Moles larger than 6mm (around the size of a pencil eraser) should be assessed, particularly if they continue to grow.

E – Evolving

One of the most important warning signs is change. If a mole changes in size, shape, colour, texture, or begins itching, bleeding, or crusting, it should be checked by a specialist as soon as possible.

Why Early Detection Matters

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, but when detected early, treatment outcomes are often very successful.

Many people delay getting a mole checked because they are unsure whether it is serious. However, it is always best to seek professional advice if you notice anything unusual or changing on your skin.

At Southface Dermatology Clinic, our expert dermatologists provide professional skin assessments, mole checks, and skin cancer investigations with fast access to expert care and treatment.

How to Check Your Skin at Home

Performing regular skin checks at home can help you spot changes early.

We recommend:

• Checking your skin once a month
• Using a mirror to examine difficult-to-see areas
• Taking photos to monitor changes over time
• Asking a partner or family member to help check areas such as your back or scalp

Remember to check:

• Face and neck
• Arms and hands
• Legs and feet
• Back and shoulders
• Scalp and behind the ears

When Should You Book an Appointment?

You should arrange a professional skin check if:

• A mole changes in appearance
• You notice a new or unusual lesion
• A spot becomes itchy, painful, or bleeds
• You are worried about any skin change

At Southface Dermatology Clinic, we are passionate about raising awareness around skin cancer and helping patients access expert dermatology care quickly and confidently.

If you are concerned about a mole or skin lesion, book a skin check with our specialist dermatology team today.