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At Southface Skin Clinic, we offer advanced and evidence-based treatments for a range of skin conditions, including superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) — one of the most common forms of non-melanoma skin cancer.

One of the highly effective, non-invasive treatments available at our clinic is Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) — a precise, light-based therapy that targets cancerous skin cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.

What is Photodynamic Therapy?

Photodynamic Therapy is a specialised treatment that combines a light-sensitive medication with a specific wavelength of light to selectively destroy abnormal skin cells.

It’s particularly well-suited to treating superficial basal cell carcinomas, which are often found on the face, scalp, chest, or back. PDT is non-surgical, highly targeted, and delivers excellent cosmetic results — making it an ideal choice for patients seeking effective treatment with minimal downtime or scarring.

How Does PDT Work?

1. Preparation – The affected area is gently prepared, and a photosensitising cream is applied to the lesion.
2. Incubation – The cream is left on the skin for a few hours to allow it to be absorbed by the abnormal cells.
3. Activation – A special red or blue light is then applied to the area, activating the cream and destroying the targeted cancer cells.
4. Healing – Over the next few days to weeks, the treated area will heal, often leaving minimal marks compared to traditional surgical methods.

Why Choose PDT for Superficial BCC?

• Minimally invasive
• No surgical incision or stitches
• Excellent cosmetic outcome
• Outpatient procedure
• Well-tolerated with minimal downtime

PDT is particularly beneficial for lesions in cosmetically sensitive areas, such as the face or scalp, or for patients who may not be ideal candidates for surgery.

Consultant-Led Skin Cancer Care

At Southface Skin Clinic, our skin cancer services are led by highly experienced consultant dermatologists. If you’ve been diagnosed with a superficial BCC, we’ll carefully assess your case and discuss the most appropriate treatment options, including whether PDT may be right for you.

Book a Consultation

If you’ve been referred for treatment or are concerned about a suspicious skin lesion, we’re here to help.

Expert Skin Cancer Care. Trusted Results.

We’re thrilled to announce the opening of our brand-new Southface Dermatology Clinic in Poole — a space dedicated to delivering expert dermatological care and skin health solutions on the South Coast.

Building on the success of our flagship clinic, Southface Poole brings the same gold-standard service, advanced medical expertise, and patient-first approach to a new location — making it even easier for our Dorset-based patients to access high-quality skin care.

Why Poole?

At Southface, we believe everyone deserves access to exceptional skin health support. As demand for dermatological services continues to grow, opening a dedicated clinic in Poole allows us to expand our reach and provide local, specialist care to more patients across the region — including Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, and the wider Dorset area.

What to Expect at Southface Poole

Our dermatologists in Poole offer consultations and skin surgery for a wide range of skin lesions, skin conditions and hair and nail problems. From initial consultation to treatment and ongoing aftercare, every step of your journey is designed with your skin’s health and confidence in mind.

Now Accepting New Patients

Southface Dermatology Poole is now open and welcoming new patients. 

Your Skin. Our Expertise. Trusted Results.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our newest clinic.

At Southface Skin Clinic, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of skin health and advanced aesthetics — and this weekend was a perfect example of that commitment in action.

Members of our clinical team spent two inspiring days in London last month attending the very first Cutera AviClear Academy — an exclusive training event hosted by Cutera UK. This event brought together leading practitioners from across the country to deepen their knowledge, share insights, and refine their expertise in using AviClear, the revolutionary new treatment transforming the way we approach acne.

What is AviClear?

If you haven’t yet heard of AviClear, prepare to be amazed. It’s the first and only FDA-cleared energy device for the treatment of mild to severe acne. Using a unique 1726nm wavelength, AviClear targets the sebaceous glands — the source of oil that often leads to acne — to significantly reduce breakouts without the need for medications, including antibiotics or harsh topicals.

This is a drug-free, chemical-free, and clinically proven solution to acne — with lasting results.

Bringing Innovation Home

We’re proud to say that AviClear is already available here at Southface Skin Clinic, and the results we’ve seen in our patients so far have been truly life-changing. Clearer, calmer skin, improved confidence, and long-term acne control — all with minimal downtime and no ongoing prescriptions.

A Weekend of Learning and Leading

The AviClear Academy was more than just a training session. It was a chance to connect with other elite clinics and industry leaders, exchange clinical experience, and explore the latest research and protocols for optimising treatment outcomes.

Our team returned from the weekend feeling energised, inspired, and even more confident in delivering this next-generation treatment to our patients.

Ready to Experience the Future of Acne Treatment?

If you or someone you love is struggling with acne, AviClear could be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Book a consultation with our expert team and find out how this revolutionary treatment can help you achieve the clear, healthy skin you deserve.

When most people think of skin cancer, they imagine a strange-looking mole or a dark, irregular patch of skin. But the truth is — not all skin cancers look like moles.

At Southface Skin Clinic, we treat non-melanoma skin cancers every single day, many of which don’t look like what people expect. Recognising the subtle signs could make a vital difference in early diagnosis and successful treatment.

What Does Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Look Like?

Non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are the most common types of skin cancer in the UK. Unlike melanoma, they usually don’t start in moles.

They may appear as:

• A non-healing sore or spot that lasts for weeks or months
• A new growth, bump, or red patch that doesn’t go away
• A scaly area that may bleed, ooze, or crust
• A pearly or waxy lump
• A flat, scarlike lesion

If you notice anything on your skin that doesn’t look right or hasn’t healed, it’s worth getting it checked.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

We recommend booking a skin check if you notice:

• A lesion or patch that won’t heal after a few weeks
• A spot that bleeds spontaneously or forms a persistent scab
• A new bump or rough area that looks or feels different

It’s always better to be safe and have a professional assess your skin — especially if you live in an area with higher sun exposure.

Skin Cancer in Dorset and the South West

Did you know? The South West has the highest rates of skin cancer in the UK. With our beautiful coastal lifestyle comes increased sun exposure — and the associated risks. Even incidental sun over the years can cause long-term skin damage that leads to cancer.

Expert Skin Cancer Care at Southface

At Southface Skin Clinic, our consultant dermatologists are experts in recognising and treating all types of skin cancer. We offer:

• Thorough skin cancer checks and mole assessments
• Rapid diagnosis and biopsy when needed
• Surgical and non-surgical treatments for skin cancer, including Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Early detection is key. When caught early, most skin cancers can be treated quickly and effectively with excellent outcomes.

Don’t Ignore Your Skin

If you’ve noticed a non-healing spot, a persistent sore, or any unusual skin change, don’t wait.

Southface Skin Clinic – Specialists in Skin Cancer Detection & Treatment. Trusted. Local. Consultant Dermatologists.

This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we set out with one goal — to raise awareness and make expert skin checks more accessible to our community. What happened next exceeded all expectations.

Our Free Mole Screening Event at our Christchurch clinic welcomed over 300 members of the public, many of whom had been anxiously waiting for skin checks they hadn’t been able to access due to record-high NHS waiting lists. For many, this wasn’t just a convenient appointment — it was a lifeline.

Throughout the day, our incredible dermatology team screened over 1,000 moles. And most significantly, we identified 7 melanomas. That’s 7 lives potentially saved through early detection. It was a powerful reminder of why events like these are so essential.

“I’ve been trying to get this mole checked for months. I honestly cried when I walked out today – I just feel so relieved,” said one attendee.

The atmosphere was electric from the moment doors opened. There was a real sense of community, care, and gratitude in every corner of the clinic. Many attendees were emotional — not just because of the potential health impact, but because they felt truly seen, valued, and supported.

As a special gesture, La Roche-Posay generously provided free SPF for all attendees, helping reinforce the importance of sun protection in the fight against skin cancer.

We are proud to announce that, due to the overwhelming response, this event will now be held annually. Saving lives, offering reassurance, and breaking down barriers to care — this is what healthcare should be about.

Why Skin Checks Matter

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, and when caught early, it’s highly treatable. Yet so many people put off getting checked — either due to wait times, lack of awareness, or uncertainty about what to look for.

Regular self-examinations and annual professional mole screenings can make all the difference. If you notice any changes in a mole’s size, shape, colour, or texture, don’t delay in seeking medical advice.

Our Message to You

To every person who came through our doors — thank you. Your trust means the world to us.

And to those still waiting or unsure, we’re here. Skin health matters. You matter.

At Southface Skin Clinic, we’re all about glowing skin — and when it comes to delivering instant results with long-term benefits, the HydraFacial is one of our all-time favourites. This multi-step, medical-grade facial deeply cleanses, exfoliates, extracts, and hydrates the skin — leaving you with a dewy, radiant glow in just one session.

But when is the best time to book in for your HydraFacial? Spoiler alert: there’s always a good reason — but here are our top moments when a HydraFacial really shines:

1. Before & After Travel

Travelling, especially by air, can wreak havoc on your skin. Cabin pressure, recycled air, sun exposure, and a change in climate can all leave your skin feeling dry, dull, or congested.

• Before: Prep your skin with a hydration boost and remove buildup before heading off.
• After: Refresh and detox after long flights or sun-soaked holidays.

2. Before a Big Event

Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, photoshoot or special date, a HydraFacial will have your skin camera-ready. With no downtime, you can enjoy an instant glow and smoother texture, making it the perfect pre-event pick-me-up.

• Pro Tip: Book it 1–2 days before your event for the ultimate glow.

3. After a Breakout

HydraFacials are gentle yet powerful. After a breakout, your skin can be left inflamed, bumpy, and in need of a detox.

• This treatment calms the skin, clears congested pores, and helps reduce post-blemish marks — all without harsh scrubbing or irritation.

4. Before Injectables

Did you know a HydraFacial is a great prep step before treatments like Botox or filler?

• Clean, hydrated, healthy skin responds better to injectables, helping enhance and prolong your results.

5. Monthly Maintenance

Consistency is key. A monthly HydraFacial helps maintain your skin’s clarity, elasticity, and glow by staying ahead of congestion and dehydration.

• Think of it as your regular skin MOT — a non-negotiable in your skincare routine.

6. After a Breakup

Because sometimes self-care really is the best revenge.
A HydraFacial will help you feel refreshed, revitalised, and ready to glow through whatever life throws your way. Confidence starts with how you feel in your own skin — and we’re here for it.

Ready for Your Glow-Up?

Whether you’re jetting off, getting ready for something special, or just need a reset — a HydraFacial atSouthface Skin Clinic is always a good idea. Book yours today and let your skin do the talking.

Call or book online to reserve your appointment.

Your skin deserves it.