What’s it all about? You are weighed and measured, then electronic pads are strapped to the problem areas on your body. I had them placed on my thighs, hips, diaphragm and bottom. Low electrical currents are passed through the pads, causing your muscles to contract, which, Arasys claims, increases your metabolic rate and breaks down fat and cellulite. It says that one session is equivalent to 300 sit-ups and 400 buttock raises. We couldn’t find any published clinical evidence to support this.

Suitable for bingo wings, jelly bellies and orange-peel thighs.

Ouch factor At the lowest setting, the waves create a pins-and-needles sensation that is not unpleasant. At the highest, I had tears in my eyes as my muscles clenched alarmingly. The next day I felt stiff and achy, just as if I had done a real workout.

Frequency The effects last 12 hours, and ten sessions spread over three weeks are recommended.

Trick or treat? I lost 7½in overall — 2in from my stomach — after one session and I felt more toned afterwards. Two days later, the effect had diminished to 4in overall. Arasys claims that if you complete the course this would result in the loss of 9in overall and the effects would be longer lasting.

Appointments I had Arasys at the Sun Room, London W1 (020-7637 3763), where the treatment costs £25 per session. For treatments nationwide, call Arasys on 01202 299228.

KATIE CLIFTON

Correction: The Zoom tooth-whitening treatment featured last week uses an ultra violet lamp not a laser, to whiten teeth. Call 0800 0323005 for details.

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