Light Therapy Buying Guide
SAD Lights, also known as sunlight lamps or light therapy lamps, are specially designed lights that help to treat the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder. Seasonal Affective Disorder lights produce light that imitates the sun’s rays, a lack of which is thought to be the primary cause of SAD.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that occurs seasonally, and is more common in Northern climates. Sufferers of the illness find that they experience depression symptoms that coincide with the onset of winter, when days are shorter and there are fewer hours of sunlight. The symptoms usually become less severe as spring approaches and days grow longer.
Light therapy is an effective way to combat SAD. Because a lack of sunlight is thought to be the reason for the depressive symptoms, scientists have developed light therapy treatments as a way to provide sufferers with sunlight during the dark winter months. The light rays emitted by the sunlight lamps are comparable to those we receive from the sun, because they are full-spectrum, which means they distribute all colours of light, from infrared to ultraviolet—just like the sun. They also produce a much more intense light than one would normally absorb from indoor lighting. Typical office lighting might emit 350-500 lux, whereas most SAD lights emit from 3,000 to 10,000 lux when used appropriately.
The Day-Light Classic SAD Lamp is the all-around choice for SAD disorder sufferers. Its modern design and adjustable legs make it easy to incorporate into any room’s decor, and allow the user to optimize the placement of the lamp for light therapy treatment. It is glare free, UV filtered, and comes with two settings for direct or ambient light, depending on your needs. 10,000 lux at 12 inches.
The BOXelite lamp is a table top light therapy lamp with a light surface that is slightly smaller than the Day-Light Classic. This makes it great for use while reading or working at a desk or computer. It’s all-metal design is sleek and classy, and there is no UV or magnetic field. 10,000 lux at 17 inches.
The Flamingo lamp is a unique floor lamp design, so that you can receive light therapy while doing almost any stationary activity: using exercise equipment, reading, writing, knitting, and watching TV. The compact shape fits in any room. The lamp is 46” tall and emits 5,000 lux at 12 inches.
The SHOWoff light is a ceiling mounted SAD lamp that saves space while still providing those vital rays of light. It is ideal for a dimly lit workplace, shop, or studio. The 4 foot long fixture is mounted on a track so that can provide light to a large area. 3,000 lux at 3 feet or 2,800 lux at 4 feet.
The SADelite lamp is a desk lamp with a difference. With its adjustable shade and angle, the lamp is compact yet effective. It can be used for any home or office task that requires bright lighting on a table or desk top, so that you can continue working while you receive therapy. 10,000 lux at 18 inches.
The TRAVelite is the perfect way to take your light therapy with you! Compact and versatile, the TRAVelite can easily fit in a briefcase, and weighs only 2.2 lbs. Included with the light is a portable stand that allows the light to be mounted vertically or horizontally. 10,000 lux at 10 inches.
The Feel Bright Light Visor is the best way to receive your light therapy while on the go. The rechargeable LED device that is mounted on the beak of a baseball cap directs the therapeutic light into your eyes, so you can get your light therapy while getting on with your day. The unit is lightweight because it uses a long lasting, battery-powered green LED. Product features an automatic 30-minute shutoff and 12,000 or 8,000 lux options.