Eugh, January. Who gives up alcohol now, when red wine is practically medicinal? Save detox for spring, when the extra light gives you natural energy and the influx of gym newbies have lost their enthusiasm. While a post-workout glow is enviable, light therapy can deliver deeper results. It also requires as much effort as turning on the TV, as I discovered when I tried the DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro from Dr Dennis Gross.

This futuristic LED mask from the US dermatologist can rejuvenate skin with a daily three-minute dose over a 10-week period. The mask has three settings: red, blue and red/blue. Red light penetrates deeply into the epidermis to reduce redness and inflammation and soften the look of pigmentation, discolouration, fine lines and wrinkles by boosting collagen. Blue light destroys blemish-inducing acne bacteria to heal breakouts and prevent future ones.

BEHIND THE MASK

After cleansing, I wore the mask for three minutes before bed. I have skin pigmentation, so tested the red light setting for two weeks. People remarked I looked well (always a good sign), but as I packed up the mask to return it, I also kissed goodbye to my smoother visage, as it must be used every day for 10 weeks to maintain the benefits. Still, if this is the future of skincare, it’s exciting – a clutter-free existence, clear of creams and lotions or aggressive, misery- inducing acne treatments.

The snag? It costs £430, but hear me out. With the different settings, it can treat more than one condition and in just three minutes, more than one person. Admittedly, it’s not for bargain beauty hunters, but if you’re looking at a course of professional light therapy treatment (or totting up annual spend on skincare products and facials), it might start to look like a savvy investment, especially if you share it with flatmates or family. But this isn’t the only option. For half the outlay, you could get the Foreo UFO Smart Mask, which uses hot and cold light therapy to enhance the magic of its interchangeable, 90-second sheet masks.