Background:
I am 39 and I normally have 2 to 5 inflammatory acne lesions every month when my hormone peaks. I purchased Verilux ClearWave last year because my then most favorite treatment Ziana Gel (tretinoin/ clindamycin) started losing its effectiveness after two years of daily application.
The reasons to choose this product over others are mainly Amazon's great feedback rating and my personal experience with this technology. I had good result with Blue-U offered by my dermatologist. However, sitting in the doctor's office alone so frequently (3 to 4 times a week) and for so long (30-minute each time) is not a pleasant thing for me. Besides, it costs me about $300 only to enjoy clear complexion for as short as one and half month. I thought it would be great that I can do this routine at home comfortably while my dogs playing around (they are smart enough to keep safe distance), listening to my favorite music, and even talking to someone on the phone. And very importantly, it costs very little for the long run.
How do I use it:
I use Verilux ClearWave in combination with good skin care products, prescription gels (such as Ziana, Benzaclin etc), prescription oral antibiotics (such as Doxycycline) and smart spot treatment device such as Zeno.
I spend 15 to 20 minutes on the lamp every night before I sleep. I find myself most relaxed when I lie in the bed, with the lamp sitting on my chest, facing toward my face, supported by a yoga block strategically placed in between the pillow above my head and the edge of the lamp. (By doing this, the lamp is just 1 or 2 inches away from my nose).
The results:
1. It works. My face becomes less oily even after the first few sessions. It prevents new acnes from forming and makes the existing ones go away more quickly.
2. Unlike most other acne treatments, this method is very gentle on your skin with zero side effect. I have seen pregnant women receiving Blue-U at the doctor's office. No burning, no peeling, no irritation.
Other thoughts:
1. Verilux is a pricy lamp for almost $200, but I have to admit it is very well-built. The whole thing looks like a medical equipment with smooth plastic molding/ ejection line and durable power supply. It is different from an ordinary cosmetic tool.
2. Verilux is a giant thing which makes it impossible to travel with. In other words, you cannot rely on it solely without any other effective remedy.
3. I give it a 5-star rating because I believe every acne treatment with satisfying result deserves a 5-star. The fact is that there are not many out there. I have tried more than couple dozens since I was a teen. Less than 5 products are listed as my favorite and being kept handy all the time today. Verilux ClearWave is one of them!
4. I love how users share experiences with others so consumers are able to make better decisions. This is the first product review I write in my life. I hope it will help!