10 Best Lamps for SAD in the UK 2024
SAD lamps can be an effective form of therapy, using light to alleviate SAD symptoms. Unfortunately, they aren’t available on the NHS so if you want to try this type of therapy, it is best to look online and do your research. This article provides all the information you need to buy an effective lamp, including our top picks for the best SAD lamps available online at Amazon and John Lewis.
Quick List - Top Lamps for SAD
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What Is SAD?
As with other forms of depression, those with SAD struggle with symptoms of low mood, apathy and fatigue that negatively impact daily life. SAD sufferers may even notice increased cravings for sweet foods that can result in binge eating, weight gain and associated health problems.
The good news is that symptoms of SAD will usually alleviate in the spring. However, in severe cases, individuals may withdraw socially or even experience suicidal thoughts, so it is important to consult your GP first if you think you or someone you know may have SAD.
How Light Therapy Can Help Ease Symptoms of SAD
Have you ever noticed how our mood is generally better during the summer? The lack of light in winter triggers this hormonal response, altering our bodies’ chemistry. This can be especially problematic for individuals with a lower than average serotonin level, a chemical that plays a large role in our overall happiness and wellbeing.
Light therapy is a safe and un-intrusive method of regulating hormone production, suitable for people of all ages. SAD lamps work by shining a bright, cool light that mimics sunlight exposure. As the light passes through the retina, it sends nerve signals to the brain to decrease melatonin production and increase serotonin levels.
How to Choose a Lamp for SAD in the UK ― Buying Guide
SAD lamps are a convenient way to administer light therapy at home, in the office or just about anywhere depending on the model you go for! When shopping online, you should consider practicalities such as your lamp's light intensity, colour, and style.
Choose a Lamp With Sufficient Light Intensity
Higher light intensity means you will need less time spent sitting in front of your SAD lamp. Needing to spend lengthy amounts of time in front of a lamp can be difficult to fit into busy schedules, making it less likely that you will maintain an adequate light therapy regime.
We recommend lamps that generate around 10,000 lux for efficiency and convenience. Some lamps have multiple light settings allowing users to change the intensity of their light. This function may be useful to those with light sensitivity or to decrease usage as the seasons change gradually.
Coloured Light Settings Offer Different Therapeutic Benefits
Blue light most accurately mimics light from the sun. Some research shows that certain photoreceptors responsible for producing mood-regulating hormones respond best to blue light, so you may want to give it a go!
Buying a SAD lamp with a warm amber light function helps reset sleep cycles. Amber or red lights are best used in the evening. They let our bodies know that it's time to wind down for a restful sleep, helping you feel more awake in the morning. For combatting SAD, you will want to use an amber light alongside a white or blue light to balance melatonin and serotonin production.
Pick a Style of Lamp That Suits Your Lifestyle
Portable Lamps Enable SAD Therapy Whilst Travelling
Some models have an internal battery that can be charged, making them a great choice when travelling or anywhere you may not have access to a power outlet. For use in the home or the office, a mains powered lamp guarantees you won’t suddenly run out of power when using it for long sessions or if you forget to charge your device.
Light needs to be able to enter the eyes to be effective for this type of therapy. Buying a larger lamp guarantees light shines evenly over the face even if you shift or move position. Many larger lamps are designed to look stylish, and some SAD lights double as desk lamps for use while studying or working.
The Light Source Affects the Lamps Longevity and Affordability
Lightbulbs don’t flicker and can be easily replaced once they burn out. Be aware that buying replacement bulbs will add to the long term costs of maintaining your SAD lamp and some bulbs will need to be re-ordered from the manufacturer for the correct fit.
10 Best Lamps for SAD in the UK
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Beurer 2 in 1 Daylight and Mood SAD Lamp｜TL100UK | | Best SAD Lamp for Personalised Treatment | |
2 | Luminette SAD Light Therapy Glasses | | A Convenient Option for Portable Light Therapy | |
3 | Hosome SAD Lamp | | Best Tablet-Style SAD Lamp | |
4 | Lumie Desklamp SAD Light | | A 2-in-1 SAD Light Box and Desk Lamp | |
5 | Azhien SAD Daylight Lamp | | Best Blue Light SAD Lamp | |
6 | Lumie Brazil SAD Lamp | | The Brightest SAD Lamp for at Home Use | |
7 | Lifemax Portable SAD Light | | Best Rechargeable SAD Lamp | |
8 | Beurer Ultra Portable SAD Lamp｜TL30UK | | A Top Pick For a Portable SAD Lamp | |
9 | Lumie Arabica SAD Light Box | | Best Standard SAD Lamp | |
10 | Beurer Daylight Lamp｜TL80 | | Administering Light Therapy While Reading |
Beurer 2 in 1 Daylight and Mood SAD Lamp ｜ TL100UK
Best SAD Lamp for Personalised Treatment
Use the lamp with the Beurer LightUp app to alter settings; set an interval timer, auto-shutoff or use the app to program up to 256 different colours variations. If you prefer a more calming hue while maintaining the same therapeutic benefits, switch to a blue light setting. When it’s time for bed, try red light to simulate sunset, helping you drift off into a peaceful sleep.
A Convenient Option for Portable Light Therapy
Lightweight and one size fits all; glasses wearers will be pleased to know they can be used in conjunction with your regular eyewear. The beam of light does not obstruct users’ field of vision and can be adjusted to one of three light settings for the most comfortable exposure. Best of all, one charge lasts for up to 10 sessions so you can go about your daily activities!
Best Tablet-Style SAD Lamp
The natural white light setting reaches 10,000 lux for a short burst of light therapy in the morning. For those who may find bright lights irritating, the warm white setting is perfect for long exposure. Finally, when it’s time to wind down in the evening, try the warm light setting to let your body know it’s time to rest.
A 2-in-1 SAD Light Box and Desk Lamp
Don’t think you need this lamp running all day to be effective: the recommended treatment time is only 30 minutes! If the glare is too bright, attach the diffuser for a softer spread. Note that with the diffuser installed, it will take 1 hour to receive the full benefits of light therapy.
Best Blue Light SAD Lamp
Just as effective as white light lamps; this Azhien's daylight model delivers 10,000 lux for mood-lifting results within 1-2 weeks, requiring 2hrs of use per day. This lamp utilises a combination of filters to prevent straining tired eyes, making it a great lamp to wake up to in the morning or after a busy day at work or school.
The Brightest SAD Lamp for at Home Use
Despite its size, the Lumie Brazil is surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to move around to where you need it. Unfortunately, it can only be placed in the portrait aspect, so we advise you to use this lamp while sitting upright or standing to get the most effective treatment.
Best Rechargeable SAD Lamp
This unit uses a blue spectrum CCFL tube that casts a cool white light over the face while avoiding the spotting or strobing associated with LEDs. Doubling as a nifty facial grooming light, the circular design creates a halo effect similar to a ring light for perfect illumination when shaving, practising skincare, or applying makeup.
A Top Pick For a Portable SAD Lamp
A detachable clip means you can use this lamp in either portrait or landscape orientation to ensure the right amount of light, whether sitting or lying down. Unfortunately, this device loses marks when it comes to power. The Beurer TL30UK needs to be connected to a mains power supply to run, making it slightly less travel friendly than rechargeable SAD lamps.
Best Standard SAD Lamp
This lamp uses two 24 W bulbs so you should factor in the cost of replacements when considering this lamp. However, the manufacturer states that generally the bulbs only need to be replaced every two years based on average usage.
Administering Light Therapy While Reading
Be aware that this Lamp is on the heavier side, making it better suited to at-home use. We recommend setting it up somewhere you can sit comfortably for a prolonged period of time as it’s not the most convenient model to pick up and move around.
Positioning Is Key To Getting the Most Out of Your Lamp
Bear these tips in mind when positioning your SAD light:
- Make sure the light rests at eye level or higher to replicate a natural light setting.
- Artificial lighting shouldn't be placed directly in front of your eyes. Instead, position the lightbox at an angle.
More Gadgets to Help You Combat The Winter Blues
Summary
Managing any form of depression can feel like an overwhelming task. For individuals navigating the negative feelings brought on by SAD this winter, daily light therapy can help regulate the biological factors affecting your mood and well being to alleviate symptoms and bring a sense of much-needed peace during the darkest days of the year.
Author: Wrenn Mann
Top 5 Lamps for SAD
No. 1: Beurer ｜2 in 1 Daylight and Mood SAD Lamp｜TL100UK
No. 2: Luminette｜SAD Light Therapy Glasses
No. 3: Hosome｜SAD Lamp
No. 4: Lumie｜Desklamp SAD Light
No. 5: Azhien｜SAD Daylight Lamp
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.