Acne is a skincare condition that can cause severe distress to anyone suffering from it. From hormonal acne that erupts at that time of the month to painful cystic bumps, this is a skin problem that can be quite problematic. With that in mind, we decided it was time to call in an expert to find out the skin science behind this condition. In the first part of this two-part feature, we spoke to Irene Trowell, Managing Director at the Galway Laser & Skincare Clinic, who explained what acne is and recommended basic treatment ideas. Now, Irene has advice on some clinical and high-tech treatments that are aimed at acne.

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  A consultation with a skin specialist is advised, your specialist will advise you on homecare products and a treatment plan, and also in some cases they may advise you to consult your doctor. Here's some information on some of the most popular clinic treatments: Glycolic Skin Peels This type of treatment does not involve any actually peeling. It uses the active ingredient “Glycolic Acid” to help exfoliate your skin and balance the oil production. Some skincare ranges require you to use a homecare cleanser or serum with Glycolic acid for a minimum of two weeks before your in-clinic treatment. This allows your skin to become accustomed to the ingredient and also to achieve the most from your treatment as the looser dead skin on the surface has already been exfoliated by the time you go for your skin peel. Skincare Facials (including extractions) These types of facials will vary with each skincare brand, your skincare specialist will advise you on what is best for your skin, pore extractions are often included in these facials, this helps to clear blackhead and oil plugs from congested pores, these blockages are what the bacteria feeds on, so removing properly them helps to reduce breakouts. It is not advised you try unclogging blocked pores at home, leave it to the professionals. IPL Skin Rejuvenation Laser treatment is often used to help reduce the red marks and blemishes left after the breakouts, this treatment is very effective. Generally only a few sessions are needed but it will not be recommended until the breakouts have reduced considerably. It does not help with active acne. Deep Skin Peels These types of peels are carried out by a clinical nurse or doctor, they use different ingredients to the peels mentioned above. With Deep skin peels you will experience some peeling after the treatment, a consultation will be preformed to assess your suitability and advise you on the downtime expected. If you experience hard, tender lumps under your skin that don’t come to a head this is described as “cystic acne”. Cystic Acne is more difficult to treat with topical treatments as suggested above and in most cases you will be advised to see your Doctor or Dermatologist. Medical Micro needling This treatment offers great results for acne scarring, especially indentation type scarring (uneven skin texture, pit marks left from deeper spots). Medical Micro needling must be carried out by a qualified practitioner, it is best performed when the breakouts have cleared and it is not advised for active acne.