5 Things to Consider When Buying a Full Spectrum Light

If you're shopping for a full spectrum light, consider these important questions before making your purchase:

1. Why do I need a full spectrum light?

Most people learn about full spectrum lights when researching ways to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or seasonal depression. However, full spectrum lights, which mimic natural sunlight, have many other uses as well, including for skin therapy and for the reduction of eyestrain and headaches.

For the most effective SAD therapy, you'll need a full spectrum light with an intensity of at least 10,000 LUX (that's 10 to 20 times brighter than ordinary indoor lights). Founded in 1987, Apollo Health (now a part of Philips Home Healthcare Solutions) has a research partnership with the National Institute of Health (NIH), and the company has been producing effective, proven SAD light boxes for over 20 years.

The Apollo BriteLite 6 offers fast treatment for SAD. When compared to traditional SAD lightboxes, it emits 50% more of the most healing wavelengths of light. The Apollo goLITE is even more effective for some individuals since it uses Bluewave technology, which regulates melatonin levels in the body. The Apollo goLITE BLU offers SAD treatment in a small, portable package.

Full spectrum lights also improve light contrast, reduce glare, help to portray truer colors, and ease eyestrain. As such, they're popular for reading, arts, crafts, and hobbies that require fine attention to detail. Verilux produces several adjustable full spectrum lamps that are ideal for close-range activities.

Verilux also offers the Clearwave Deluxe Skincare System, which utilizes the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of natural light to treat acne.

2. Where will I place my full spectrum light?

If you'll be using your full spectrum light for SAD therapy, consider its placement. Typical treatments last 15 to 30 minutes, and they're done in the morning. You may want to place your SAD light beside your bed, in your bathroom, or at your breakfast table. Find a spot that will be most convenient for your treatment.

If you'll be using your full spectrum light for reading, arts and crafts, or similar activities, look for an adjustable lamp that will suit your needs. Verilux offers several types of floor lamps and desk lamps. A floor lamp might work best for reading, while a desk lamp might work better for arts and crafts. Many tailors, for example, use full spectrum desk lamps to provide light for sewing.

3. Does the light need to be dimmable?

Some customers prefer dimmable lights. The Verilux Heritage Floor Lamp, for instance, offers three different brightness levels of full spectrum light. A favorite among customers, this classically styled lamp offers advanced glare reduction and flicker-free, natural white light.

4. Does my full spectrum light need to be portable?

If you suffer from SAD, you don't want to ignore your light therapy while on long vacations or business trips. The Apollo goLITE BLU is the best portable light for SAD therapy. The Verilux HappyLite Mini Ultra Sunshine Simulator is another travel-size full spectrum light. Note that the Verlilux HappyLite emits only 5,000 LUX. Therefore, you’ll need to buy a set of two to get the recommended 10,000 LUX for SAD treatment.

5. Do I have trouble falling asleep or waking up in the morning?

While all SAD lights can help to regulate your sleep patterns, some are made specifically for the task. Designed for use before falling asleep, the Verilux TwiLight Mini provides 5,000 LUX of soothing blue light therapy to help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.

If you have trouble getting out of bed in the morning, consider the Verilux Rise and Shine Natural Alarm Clock Bedside Lamp. It's the perfect alternative to loud, annoying alarm clocks. The lamp will gently awaken you with natural light that slowly brightens, along with sound that gradually gets louder. Choose from your favorite radio station or the included sounds of nature. At night, the natural light slowly fades to help you fall asleep peacefully.