News

Acne doesn’t just affect your skin — it can impact your confidence, your social life, and how you see yourself every single day. At Southface Skin Clinic, we’ve had the privilege of supporting many clients on their skin journey, and we’re proud to share one of those real experiences with AviClear — the breakthrough acne treatment that’s changing lives.

Here’s what one of our clients had to say about her journey with AviClear at Southface Skin Clinic:

Before AviClear: Struggling with Confidence

“My acne affected my confidence so much. I wouldn’t go out of the house without makeup. I cried all of the time because I felt so self-conscious. It was really ruining my life.”

Like many clients, acne didn’t just cause physical discomfort — it deeply affected her mental wellbeing. That’s why choosing the right treatment mattered so much.

Why AviClear at Southface?

“Helen went through options with me and the oral tablets weren’t something I wanted to take for various reasons, so we spoke about AviClear and it seemed the best option for me.”

AviClear stood out as a non-invasive, drug-free solution with long-lasting results. After a thorough consultation with Dr. Helen Robertshaw, the choice was clear.

The Treatment Experience

“The treatment was fine, it was explained to me and I was made aware of some slight discomfort… however, the fact there was no downtime was great.”

While the laser treatment isn’t completely painless: “I can’t lie, the laser is painful! It’s very uncomfortable and I would advise pain relief before. The nurse was great and talked me through it though, and kept reassuring me.”

The expert support from our team made all the difference.

When Do You See Results?

“I would say after the 2nd session I did see some improvement… after 8 weeks (2 treatments), the results were visible.”

And the side effects? “No side effects at all.”

Support from the Southface Team

“They were great, kept me informed and comfortable throughout the whole process.”

Our priority is making sure you feel heard, supported, and fully informed every step of the way.

The Results

“My skin is totally different. Because I had quite severe acne, I am suffering with some scarring and pitting, however there are no active spots at all.”

“Everyone has complimented my skin. I see people and they say ‘wow isn’t your skin better now?’ – it’s my biggest compliment!”

Skincare Routine Adjustments

“I spoke with Helen and we agreed products that would be great for me — we added a light oil-free moisturiser and an Epiduo, and it’s worked great!”

Tailoring your skincare after treatment is key — and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Confidence Restored

“I feel so much better. Since my treatment has been completed, we’ve discussed further treatment for scarring. My skin now is a million miles from where it was and I couldn’t be happier.”

Would You Recommend AviClear?

“I would absolutely recommend it. It is expensive and it’s very much an investment in yourself — but for me, it was worth every penny. As I said, it’s not painless… but in my opinion, worth it!”

One Final Piece of Advice?

“Do it. Especially if your acne is affecting your life like mine did. You won’t regret it.”

If you’re struggling with acne and looking for a solution that goes beyond creams and antibiotics, AviClear might be the answer you’ve been searching for.

Contact Southface Skin Clinic today to book your consultation and begin your journey to clearer, more confident skin.

Last week, our Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Helen Robertshaw FRCP joined Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital for a valuable Lunch & Learn session at The Orchid House Surgery. This event formed part of an ongoing effort to share specialist knowledge and strengthen connections between secondary and primary care providers in the local area.

Hosted in collaboration with the team at Nuffield Health, the session offered an opportunity to engage directly with local GPs and healthcare professionals, focusing on the role of dermatology in primary care and exploring referral pathways to enhance patient access to specialist services.

Dr. Robertshaw led the discussion with insightful perspectives on early identification of skin conditions, including suspicious moles, acne management, and the evolving role of dermatology in preventative care. The event also served as a platform to encourage more seamless communication between practitioners and specialists — all with the shared goal of improving patient outcomes.

We’re incredibly proud to see Dr. Robertshaw actively involved in these meaningful educational initiatives. Her commitment to supporting the wider medical community and improving dermatology awareness in general practice truly reflects the values we hold at Southface Skin Clinic.

A huge thank you to The Orchid House Surgery for the warm welcome and to all the clinicians who joined us. We look forward to more opportunities to collaborate and share knowledge — all in service of delivering outstanding skin care in our community.

April is designated as National Rosacea Awareness Month by the National Rosacea Society, aiming to educate the public about this chronic and often misunderstood skin condition that affects millions worldwide.  At Southface Skin Clinic, we’re committed to raising awareness and providing effective treatments to help individuals manage rosacea and improve their quality of life.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small, red, pus-filled bumps. It can be mistaken for acne or other skin issues and often affects the central part of the face, including the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin. 

Common Triggers of Rosacea

Understanding and identifying personal triggers is crucial in managing rosacea. Common triggers include:

• Sun exposure
• Stress
• Hot or spicy foods
• Alcohol consumption
• Extreme temperatures
• Certain skincare products

By recognising and avoiding these triggers, individuals can reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

How Southface Skin Clinic Can Help

At Southface Skin Clinic, we offer personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our approach includes:

• Topical Treatments: Prescription creams such as Soolantra to reduce inflammation and lesions.
• Oral Medications: Antibiotics and other medications to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy: Effective in reducing redness and visible blood vessels associated with rosacea. 

Our experienced dermatologists work closely with patients to develop comprehensive management strategies, including skincare routines and lifestyle modifications, to effectively control rosacea symptoms.

Raising Awareness and Seeking Treatment

National Rosacea Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of recognising the signs of rosacea and seeking professional care. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for those affected.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of rosacea, we encourage you to reach out to us here at Southface Skin Clinic. Our team is dedicated to providing expert care and support to help you achieve healthier, clearer skin.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, yet it is also one of the most preventable. Regular skin checks play a vital role in early detection, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment. To mark National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Southface Dermatology Clinic is hosting a FREE Mole Screening Event on Saturday, 10th May 2025, from 9 AM to 12 PM.

This initiative aims to raise awareness about skin cancer, highlight the importance of sun safety, and encourage people to prioritise their skin health.

Event Details

•  Date: Saturday, 10th May 2025
•  Time: 9 AM – 12 PM
•  Location: Southface Dermatology Clinic, 1 Avenue Road, Christchurch, BH23 2BU
•  Cost: Free mole screenings (first come, first served)
•  Donations: Voluntary contributions will be accepted in support of the British Skin Foundation

Why Attend?

Dermatologists at Southface Dermatology Clinic will be offering complimentary mole checks, looking for any unusual changes that may require further examination. No booking is required—simply turn up on the day. As spaces are limited, we recommend arriving early to secure your spot.

Dr. Helen Robertshaw, lead Consultant Dermatologist at Southface Dermatology Clinic, explains:

“Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet cases continue to rise. By offering free screenings, we hope to raise awareness and encourage people to prioritise their skin health. Early detection can save lives.”

Why Mole Screenings Are Essential?

• 18,000 cases of melanoma are diagnosed annually in the UK—equivalent to 50 new cases every day (WHO).
• Melanoma is the 5th most common cancer in the UK.
• Melanoma rates have increased by 32% over the past decade.
• Cases among women have risen by 27%, while men have seen an even higher increase of 38%.
• 92% of people acknowledge the dangers of sun exposure, yet only 18% regularly use sun protection.

Early detection is key—if skin cancer is caught early, the survival rate is significantly higher.

Sun Safety Tips – Protect Your Skin

In addition to free mole screenings, attendees will receive expert sun safety advice, including:

• Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen generously and reapply every 2-3 hours.
•  Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to reduce UV exposure.
•  Seek Shade: Limit sun exposure during peak hours (11 AM – 3 PM).
•  Monitor Your Skin: Keep an eye on moles or new skin changes—if something looks unusual, get it checked.

Support the British Skin Foundation

While screenings are completely free, Southface Dermatology Clinic will be accepting voluntary donations to support the British Skin Foundation. Contributions will go toward vital research into skin diseases and treatments, helping to improve patient outcomes.

No Booking Required – Just Walk In!

Take control of your skin health—early detection could save your life. No appointment is needed, but as spaces are limited, we advise arriving early.

We all love the warmth of the sun, but UV rays are one of the biggest culprits behind premature ageing and skin damage. Whether it’s summer or winter, sunny or cloudy, daily sunscreen application is non-negotiable when it comes to protecting your skin. At Southface Skin Clinic, we make it easy for you to find the perfect SPF for your skin type, ensuring you stay protected every day.

Why Is SPF So Important?

Sun exposure contributes to wrinkles, dark spots, and even skin cancer, making SPF the most important step in your skincare routine. Broad-spectrum sunscreen helps shield your skin from both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays, preventing long-term damage.

Finding the Right SPF for Your Skin Type

At Southface Skin Clinic, we stock a wide range of dermatologist-approved sunscreens tailored to suit every skin type and preference:

• Tinted & Non-Tinted Options – Perfect for those who want a little extra coverage while staying protected.
• For Oily Skin – Lightweight, mattifying formulas that won’t clog pores.
• For Dry Skin – Hydrating SPF options to nourish and protect.
• For Normal & Combination Skin – Balanced formulas that provide all-day defence.

Make SPF a Daily Habit

Applying at least SPF 30-50 every morning (and reapplying throughout the day) is the easiest way to keep your skin healthy, youthful, and radiant. Don’t forget to cover commonly missed areas like your neck, ears, and hands!

Visit Us to Find Your Perfect SPF

Not sure which SPF is right for you? Pop into Southface Skin Clinic and let our experts help you choose the best sunscreen for your skin type. We are your trusted skin protection specialists, ensuring you stay safe in the sun every day!

At Southface Skin Clinic, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the most advanced, effective, and personalised dermatological care. This month, we had the privilege of attending the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida—one of the most prestigious international gatherings of dermatology professionals.

A Global Hub for Innovation & Knowledge

The AAD Annual Meeting brings together leading dermatologists, researchers, and industry experts from around the world. It serves as a vital platform for discussing breakthrough treatments, emerging technologies, and the latest research in the field of dermatology.

As a team committed to staying at the forefront of our profession, the Southface Skin Clinic doctors engaged in numerous educational sessions, hands-on workshops, and expert-led discussions. From groundbreaking advancements in skin cancer treatments to the latest anti-ageing therapies, we gained invaluable insights that will directly benefit our patients.

Bringing Innovation Back to Our Patients

Our mission has always been to deliver world-class dermatological care to our community, and our experience at AAD 2024 has further strengthened this commitment. Some of the key takeaways we are excited to incorporate into our practice include:

• Cutting-edge skin cancer detection and treatment options for earlier and more effective intervention.
• Innovative anti-ageing treatments that offer natural, long-lasting results.
• Breakthroughs in treating chronic skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne with more personalised approaches.
• The latest research in sun protection and skin health to better educate and protect our patients.

Our Commitment to Excellence

By continuously updating our knowledge and refining our techniques, we ensure that Southface Skin Clinic remains the premier dermatology clinic in the region. Our participation in AAD 2024 is a testament to our dedication to delivering the best possible outcomes for our patients.

We look forward to applying these new advancements in dermatology to enhance the care we provide every day. Thank you for trusting us with your skin health—we are excited for the future of dermatology and what it means for you!

Stay tuned for updates on new treatments and innovations at Southface Skin Clinic!