DO I REALLY NEED...

Blue light for acne

Lustre SOLO, £35, currentbody.com

CLAIM: ‘Scientists have proven that blue light with a wavelength of 415nm can kill acne-causing bacteria,’ says the maker of this USB-charged stickon gadget. ‘All you need is 20 minutes per day ... and your skin will be left clearer.’

EXPERT VERDICT: ‘Studies have shown that blue light, which kills the P. acnes bacteria that causes spots, can be helpful in reducing inflammation and treating mild cases of acne,’ says Dr Anastasia Therianou, a consultant dermatologist at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust. ‘Other treatments — such as antibiotics and retinoids [which increase cell turnover and unclog pores] — have been shown to be more effective. ‘However, many of these treatments are contraindicated in pregnancy — so for pregnant acne patients I will often suggest blue light masks for home use, in combination with some creams that are allowed. ‘Most people have acne in many different areas of their face, so if you do want to use blue light, I think a full face mask, rather than a patch, is a better idea.’