Quick List - Top Lamps for SAD
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 |
Bear these tips in mind when positioning your SAD light:
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
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
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