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  • 10 Best Lamps for SAD in the UK 2024 1
  • 10 Best Lamps for SAD in the UK 2024 2
  • 10 Best Lamps for SAD in the UK 2024 3
  • 10 Best Lamps for SAD in the UK 2024 4
  • 10 Best Lamps for SAD in the UK 2024 5

10 Best Lamps for SAD in the UK 2024

Towards the end of the year, as our hours of sunlight get shorter, it’s not unusual to feel a bit melancholic. For the over 2 million people in the UK who experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD), the dark and gloomy weather means more than just the winter blues. That's where these glorious light lamps can help. 

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.
Last updated 27/03/2024

Quick List - Top Lamps for SAD

1

Beurer

2 in 1 Daylight and Mood SAD LampTL100UK
2 in 1 Daylight and Mood SAD Lamp

Best SAD Lamp for Personalised Treatment

2

Luminette

SAD Light Therapy Glasses
SAD Light Therapy Glasses

A Convenient Option for Portable Light Therapy

3

Hosome

SAD Lamp
SAD Lamp

Best Tablet-Style SAD Lamp

4

Lumie

Desklamp SAD Light
Desklamp SAD Light

A 2-in-1 SAD Light Box and Desk Lamp

5

Azhien

SAD Daylight Lamp
SAD Daylight Lamp

Best Blue Light SAD Lamp

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Table of Contents

What Is SAD?

What Is SAD?
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of periodic depression experienced during winter. It can affect anyone of any age, gender or background, though it most commonly affects women in their 20s and 30s.


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

How Light Therapy Can Help Ease Symptoms of SAD
It is thought that SAD is caused by increased production of the hormone melatonin during the winter months. Melatonin is the hormone that our bodies create when it gets dark to let us know that it’s time to sleep.


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.

1

Choose a Lamp With Sufficient Light Intensity

Choose a Lamp With Sufficient Light Intensity
In the summertime, it is easy to get enough light to keep our hormones in balance; in the winter, not so much. Light intensity is measured in lux, one lux being equivalent to the amount of light generated by one candle. For a SAD lamp to be effective, it should emit a minimum of 2,500 lux.


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.

2

Coloured Light Settings Offer Different Therapeutic Benefits

Coloured Light Settings Offer Different Therapeutic Benefits
The colour of the light emitted from a SAD lamp affects melatonin and serotonin production in the body; white light being the most common colour used in SAD lamps. White light provides the most powerful light exposure making it the best for shorter therapy sessions. Those with sensitive eyes may find pure white light too glaring, so look for lights that emit a warm white light or provide dimmer settings.


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.

3

Pick a Style of Lamp That Suits Your Lifestyle

SAD lamps come in a wide variety of sizes and styles for you to choose from. Consider when, where and how often you will use your SAD lamp to compare specifications.

Portable Lamps Enable SAD Therapy Whilst Travelling

Portable Lamps Enable SAD Therapy Whilst Travelling
If you are someone who travels often or wishes to use their SAD lamp on the go, you will want to look for a small and lightweight model. There are slimline lamps available with dimensions similar to a tablet computer and designed to fit inside a briefcase or handbag. You may also want to try a pair of light-emitting glasses to ensure a consistent beam while completing daily tasks.


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

The Light Source Affects the Lamps Longevity and Affordability
Winter in the UK can be tediously long, so SAD sufferers will be wanting to get a lot of use from their chosen lamp. Most SAD lamps use either LEDs or specialised lightbulbs; LEDs have a higher efficiency and use less power to run. However, flickering can be a common problem with LEDs and, over time, LEDs may degrade or burn out entirely in some devices.


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.

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10 Best Lamps for SAD in the UK

Now, in ranking order, here are our top 10 SAD lamps available in the UK to help you through those long winter nights!
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Beurer

2 in 1 Daylight and Mood SAD LampTL100UK

Beurer  2 in 1 Daylight and Mood SAD Lamp 1

Best SAD Lamp for Personalised Treatment

2

Luminette

SAD Light Therapy Glasses

Luminette SAD Light Therapy Glasses 1

A Convenient Option for Portable Light Therapy

3

Hosome

SAD Lamp

Hosome SAD Lamp 1

Best Tablet-Style SAD Lamp

4

Lumie

Desklamp SAD Light

Lumie Desklamp SAD Light 1

A 2-in-1 SAD Light Box and Desk Lamp

5

Azhien

SAD Daylight Lamp

Azhien SAD Daylight Lamp 1

Best Blue Light SAD Lamp

6

Lumie

Brazil SAD Lamp

Lumie Brazil SAD Lamp 1

The Brightest SAD Lamp for at Home Use

7

Lifemax

Portable SAD Light

Lifemax Portable SAD Light 1

Best Rechargeable SAD Lamp

8

Beurer

Ultra Portable SAD LampTL30UK

Beurer  Ultra Portable SAD Lamp 1

A Top Pick For a Portable SAD Lamp

9

Lumie

Arabica SAD Light Box

Lumie  Arabica SAD Light Box 1

Best Standard SAD Lamp

10

Beurer

Daylight LampTL80

Beurer Daylight Lamp 1

Administering Light Therapy While Reading

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Beurer
2 in 1 Daylight and Mood SAD LampTL100UK

2 in 1 Daylight and Mood SAD Lamp 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£159.99
High Mid
Reference price
£159.99
High Mid

Best SAD Lamp for Personalised Treatment

Beurer combats winter sadness with this calming colour changing SAD lamp. Don’t let appearances deceive you; far from a novelty, this SAD lamp is a certified grade II medical product! The TL100UK 2-in-1 Daylight and Mood SAD Lamp can be used as a standard sunlight emitting lamp, with 10 brightness settings reaching up to a maximum of 10,000 lux.

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.
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No.2

Luminette
SAD Light Therapy Glasses

SAD Light Therapy Glasses 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£201.90
High
Reference price
£201.90
High

A Convenient Option for Portable Light Therapy

Charged via USB cable, Luminette’s light therapy glasses are the most portable form of light therapy on the market. For effective light therapy, the light needs to reach your eyes; by wearing light therapy glasses you are guaranteed ideal eye exposure without having to spend time sitting in front of a lamp.

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!
No.3

Hosome
SAD Lamp

SAD Lamp 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£39.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£39.99
Low Mid

Best Tablet-Style SAD Lamp

Hosome's SAD lamp isn’t just perfect for light therapy whilst you're travelling but is also gentle on sensitive eyes. A good choice for those prone to eye strain, this portable device has four light functions for users to choose from.

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.
No.4

Lumie
Desklamp SAD Light

Reference price
£120.00
Mid

A 2-in-1 SAD Light Box and Desk Lamp

A fantastic choice for busy people who wish to receive light therapy while they work. This SAD lamp from Lumie comes in the form of a flexible desk lamp to save space on your worktop. Having a longer exposure to light can feel more natural and with the added functionality of a high-contrast light to help with tasks, you won’t even notice the time pass.

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.
No.5

Azhien
SAD Daylight Lamp

SAD Daylight Lamp 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£39.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£39.99
Low Mid

Best Blue Light SAD Lamp

Azhien's Blue SAD Daylight Lamp uses a pure blue light that mimics light conditions on a sunny summer's day. Blue light is emitted at the optimal wavelength to stimulate serotonin production in the body.

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.
No.6

Lumie
Brazil SAD Lamp

Brazil SAD Lamp 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£149.94
High Mid
Reference price
£149.94
High Mid

The Brightest SAD Lamp for at Home Use

The Lumie Brazil can best be described as the beefed-up older sibling of the Arabica. One of the brightest SAD lamps currently available on the market; the Brazil uses three broad-spectrum bulbs inside a curved unit to channel a powerful beam of light, setting you up for the day ahead in under 30 minutes!

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.
No.7

Lifemax
Portable SAD Light

Portable SAD Light 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£66.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£66.99
Low Mid

Best Rechargeable SAD Lamp

Charge up Lifemax’s Portable SAD Light to provide you with effective light therapy wherever and whenever you need it. While it may seem a little bulkier than tablet-style portable SAD lights, at only 0.29 kg, it won’t weigh you down. Wall mount this lamp, or if you prefer, switch to the adjustable stand to ensure the light always shines at perfect eye level.

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.
No.8

Beurer
Ultra Portable SAD LampTL30UK

Reference price
£50.38
Low Mid

A Top Pick For a Portable SAD Lamp

At around the same size as a tablet computer, the Beurer TL30UK Ultra-Portable SAD lamp slides easily into your handbag or briefcase ready for when you need a top-up during the day. Despite being small, this lamp is extremely powerful. At 10,000 lux, the flicker-free LED glow somehow makes this device seem even brighter!

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.
No.9

Lumie
Arabica SAD Light Box

Arabica SAD Light Box 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£129.55
Mid
Reference price
£129.55
Mid

Best Standard SAD Lamp

If you are looking for a good solid lamp for the sole purpose of administering light therapy, the Lumie Arabica is the right choice for you. At a distance of 25 cm, the recommended treatment time is only 30 minutes! To save time in your daily schedule, set the Arabica up at your kitchen table for light therapy while you eat your breakfast.

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.
No.10

Beurer
Daylight LampTL80

Daylight Lamp 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£142.40
High Mid
Reference price
£142.40
High Mid

Administering Light Therapy While Reading

The Beurer Daylight Lamp is the ideal shape for a corner desk or tabletop. A good reading companion, the slightly curved front panel ensures a wide beam of light. Emitting 10,000 lux at 20cm, you should be able to get your daily dose of sunshine in under an hour and a half; the perfect amount of time to get stuck into your favourite book!

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

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.

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 LampTL100UK

No. 2: LuminetteSAD Light Therapy Glasses

No. 3: HosomeSAD Lamp

No. 4: LumieDesklamp SAD Light

No. 5: AzhienSAD Daylight Lamp

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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