From quartz watches to miniature TVs, canned hot drinks and even the heated loo seat, we owe most high-tech inventions to one nation: Japan. Its inhabitants have long acted as testers for products that the rest of us would fear to imagine, let alone develop, build and then use. It’s as though the Japanese have become the world’s guinea pigs. What’s really astonishing is how many of these inventions become mainstream products. Here are six of our favourites on sale in Tokyo — but will they take off on Tyneside?

THE COLLAGEN BY SHISEIDO

What is it? Yet to be launched outside Japan, the cosmetics giant Shiseido’s answer to injectable collagen fillers in the face is a new beauty drink. Designed to be knocked back like probiotics, the drinks contain 1,000mg low-molecular fish collagen, hyaluronic acid and the amino acid GABA, plus extracts of Asian ginseng and the leaves of a eucommia tree. Japanese girls drink them in the run-up to a party, to plump up facial lines and wrinkles.

Does it work? It certainly won’t harm you, says Dr Michael Prager, a GP and cosmetic surgeon (www.drmichaelprager.com). “You’ll be getting a lot of amino acids, which is a good thing; so it could work, but probably not in three days.”

Over here? Sadly, Shiseido has no plans to launch it here yet. Collagen supplements are available in tablet form; try Perfectil Platinum, £38.65 for 60 tablets.

THE HIP ROLLER BY BEAU UP; 32 FINS ON FOUR ROLLERS

What is it? This giant pink claw-like roller is designed to fit the shape of your hip and bottom, and is recommended for use for about 15 minutes a day.

Does it work? Dr Prager says: “Very probably. Anything that increases circulation in areas of cellulite will help to reduce it.”

Over here? There are alternative tools available; try the Sanctuary Cellulite Massager (£7.83; thesanctuary.co.uk).

FACE SHAVE FOR LADY; SHAVER WITH CLEAN-UP BRUSH AND EYEBROW COMB

What is it? A delicate hand dry-shaver traditionally employed before weddings by brides eager to leave their complexions smooth with a flat surface for foundation.

Does it work? It clearly does work — face shavers are very popular with Japanese girls. But you would risk regrowth.

Over here? There are electric versions aimed at the overseas market. Check that the instructions are in English.

GERMANIUM BATH

What is it? These bright-red bath salts make a popping sound thanks to the carbon gas in them. They also contain chilli pepper and ginger extract, for a warming effect, and rock salt and scented fern extract to tighten the skin. The idea is that the bath makes you sweat, leaving your skin smooth and firm, while burning fat.

Does it work? I wish. It’ll detox at most.

Over here? Not yet but the website imomoko.com stocks similar salts and other healthproducts.

SUN CHLORELLA WAKASA GOLD

What is it? A sweet-sour drink revered for its power to boost the immune system and its anti-ageing properties.

Does it work?

The science is good; studies at the University of Richmond, Virginia, have found that its main ingredient, chlorella growth factor (CGF), can have an anti-carcinogenic effect when taken with Sun Chlorella A tablets (made up of the whole algae). Cosmetic surgeons also recommend it for its ability to speed up healing. “This is a very good product,” Dr Prager says. “I’m always interested in ways to speed up the healing process. I’d recommend this for anti-ageing.”

Over here? Available from bodykind.com for £89.95.

INSECT GUARD RING

What is it? Brightly coloured wristbands to ward off mozzies, impregnated with lemon and eucalyptus oils. Waterproof.

Does it work? Dr Prager is sceptical. “Everything I’ve read suggests that these are not likely to work; the natural smell is not effective as a repellent.”

Over here? Wristbands are available, although impregnated with chemicals. Try Insect Repellent Wrist Bands from roamingfox.co.uk, £6.99.

Additional research: Kiyo Hatadan

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