Sometimes, the dread of knowing an inevitably dark and gloomy winter is coming can be more depressing than the season itself. And if you’re someone with seasonal affective disorder (aka SAD), then you may be brainstorming ways to combat the winter blues already. One common (and science-backed) method for reducing the symptoms of SAD is light therapy, in which you sit or work in front of a SAD lamp that mimics natural outdoor light. Luckily, Amazon is home to plenty of reliable options.
But sitting in front of any bright light won’t necessarily make you feel happier. According to the Center for Environmental Therapeutics, a nonprofit research and education organization for environmental therapies, there are important criteria that you should keep in mind when purchasing a SAD light. And considering the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate SAD lights, it’s a good idea to know what you’re looking for before you invest in one.
For starters, the light should provide 10,000 lux (the measurement used for light intensity) at a comfortable sitting distance of 16 to 24 inches away from your face. It should also be white, not colored, because blue light doesn’t have therapeutic benefits. If the lamp uses fluorescent bulbs, it should also have a screen over it to filter out harmful UV rays. And in order to reduce glare, the light should be aimed to shine over your eyes — not directly into them.
If you’re in the market for the best SAD lamp for your home or office or want to see what all the hype is about, here are a few options on Amazon that will fit any budget.
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Northern Light Technologies Boxelite
This therapy light is on the bigger size at 25 inches tall, but you can adjust the height so it looks less cumbersome. For example, it can be angled downward over your eyes to get rid of glare.
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Northern Light Technologies Boxelite-OS 10,000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Light Box, $, available at Amazon
Circadian Optics Lampu Light Therapy Lamp
This organically shaped, orb-style lamp is powered by 10,000 ultra-bright LED that provides UV-free, full-spectrum therapy light.
With 4.5 out of 5 stars and 2,147 ratings on Amazon, one reviewer attests, “This is a neutral, pure white light that I think [is] very pleasing. The purpose is to help wake you up and keep you alert, and it does exactly what it’s supposed to do.”
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Circadian Optics Lampu Light Therapy Lamp, $, available at Amazon
Verilux 2-in-1 Light Therapy Task Floor Lamp
This lamp simulates natural sunlight that one reviewer insists is “life-changing.” Choose from five levels of brightness, three temperature hues, and multiple different height positions. Plus, thanks to its large stature, it can act as a run-of-the-mill floor lamp during sunny seasons.
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Verilux 2-in-1 Light Therapy Task Floor Lamp, $, available at Amazon
Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp
As we stated in the intro, it’s best for your happy light to shower you from above or beam from below — not blaze directly into your eyes. Set Carex’s large therapy lamp on your desk and bask in its healthy glow. One on-site reviewer writes, “this does actually work and helps me to feel more awake and to stay awake the entire day. I use it when I really need that boost.”
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Carex Health Brands Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp, $, available at Amazon
Verilux HappyLight LED Therapy Lamp
About the size of an iPad, this light delivers 10,000 lux when you touch the control panel. There are four timed settings that allow the light to run for 15- to 60-minute increments. For optimal results, it’s best to use your light for about 20-30 minutes, according to the Mayo Clinic.
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Verilux HappyLight LED Therapy Lamp, $, available at Amazon
Theralite Radiance Light Therapy Lamp
Despite its slender design, this 10,000-lux lamp emits the recommended amount of LED for one person. And, not only does it boost your spirit, but it also recharges your phone. We’d recommend it to college students or anyone who likes to move their light around the house.
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Theralite Radiance Light Therapy Lamp, $, available at Amazon
JolyWell Light Therapy Lamp
The true selling point of this SAD lamp — 10,000 lux LED, timer, and customizable brightness aside — is its foldable book-like design. Go from propping it up on your bed to popping it in your bag or suitcase to bring wherever life takes you. (Although, FYI it does need to be plugged in.)
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JolyWell Light Therapy Lamp, $, available at Amazon
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