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Best Light Therapy Glasses in 2025: A Review of Top 4 Brands

Our fast-paced lifestyles, round-the-clock culture, and excessive screen time may disrupt our internal clocks, often leaving us groggy, unmotivated, and reaching our second cup of coffee by 10 a.m.

Light therapy glasses have emerged as a promising tool to help adjust your circadian rhythm, which is responsible for our 24-hour wake-rest cycle. Best of all, these glasses are designed for hassle-free and convenient use, making it easy to enjoy their potential benefits at home.

If this sounds intriguing, don't miss out on our light therapy glasses selection. We have thoroughly researched the market with the help of our research team and handpicked options that truly shine for their features, ease of use, and overall quality.

Recent updates
In our latest update, we have provided a more comprehensive approach to light therapy glasses by expanding the informational section with additional research studies and valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

Best light therapy glasses: shortlist

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Why did we select Luminette as the best?

While there are many remarkable options in the light therapy glasses landscape, none of them surprised us quite like Luminette. This pair of glasses excels in quality, comfort, and innovative design, making it one of our favorite devices for helping to adjust your circadian rhythm.

What sets Luminette apart is its commitment to transparency and its dedication to developing products grounded in scientific research and produced to the highest standards.

We also love the close collaboration of this brand with various research organizations, driving advancements in light therapy for addressing various health concerns, including sleep issues, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), or shift work sleep disorder.

Best light therapy glasses: product review

Light therapy glasses are gaining traction in the wellness community for their potential to improve sleep and elevate daily performance. However, with so many unique and innovative options available, finding the right fit can be quite challenging. That's why we have carefully reviewed a variety of glasses and selected only those that ticked all of our boxes.

With this in mind, we have prioritized glasses that are user-friendly, customizable, offer long battery life, and, most importantly, have some scientific background to support their claims. We hope you can find below the pair of glasses to incorporate into your routine.

1. Luminette — best overall light therapy glasses

Luminette 3 glasses

Luminette dates back to 2006. This third-generation device represents over a decade of collaborative research with the University of Liege (Belgium). Its CE certification signifies compliance with stringent European quality standards.

Utilizing a blue-enriched white light peaking at 468 nm, this product may be a good choice for potentially rebalancing your biological clock, promoting better sleep, and in turn, supporting energy levels. Designed lightweight and with eight LEDs, it is for comfortable, glare-free use.

With brightness levels ranging from 500 to 1,500 lux, users can choose between short 20-minute or extended 45-minute sessions. Moreover, its battery endures up to 10 days after a 2-hour charge. While it pairs with Bluetooth and a basic app, its core value is in its standalone features.

Who might benefit from Luminette?

These glasses could be an excellent choice for individuals looking to support their biological clock for various reasons, such as sleep issues, travel, work schedules, and more. If you are curious about who might benefit the most, here are the key groups:

  • Shift-workers
  • Individuals experiencing seasonal blues
  • Those in search of lightweight glasses
  • Users seeking products with scientific backing
  • Those seeking to support their sleep-wake cycles
  • Travelers experiencing jet-lag

Key features

  • Type of light. Blue-enriched white light
  • Wavelength. 468 nm
  • User experience. Indirect light via holographic reflector
  • App. Yes
  • Best for. Rest and sleep

Our verdict

Overall, we believe Luminette could be an excellent option for anybody looking for comfortable glasses to support their sleep quality, reduce fatigue, and have more energy upon waking up.

We particularly like that it is supported by various research studies and its close partnership with the University of Liege. The customization features and accompanying app are standout elements, making it user-friendly for beginners and seasoned users alike. Lastly, its positive feedback further reinforces its quality, securing its place at the top of our ranking.

Priced at $199, it offers a 30-day return and 2-year warranty.

2. AYO — best light therapy glasses for tech-savvy users

Person putting on AYO glasses, with an AYO box resting on a sofa in the background

Originating from the Netherlands, AYO introduces a unique pair of light therapy glasses designed to improve sleep, alleviate jet lag-induced tiredness, and support energy levels. It can be paired with a tailored AYO app and has Bluetooth capabilities to adjust the light intensity and session duration settings through your smartphone.

AYO is equipped with four LEDs for blue-turquoise light and an additional two specifically for red light. According to the brand, its irradiance of 250 µW/cm2 is considered to be equivalent to 10,000 lux of bright light emitted by a conventional light box. According to the device makers, it emits no UV and IR light and is glare-free.

AYO can be conveniently charged through a USB-C mechanism, enabling the use of various cables, including the USB-A to USB-C cable provided in the packaging, as well as USB-C to USB-C cables. Moreover, AYO complies with the United States of America’s FCC marking and European Union’s CE.

Who might benefit from AYO?

AYO’s distinctive features and customization options make it a versatile device suitable for a wide range of users. However, we believe it can be particularly beneficial for:

  • Tech-savvy users who enjoy keeping track of their lifestyle goals on their smartphones
  • Individuals experiencing sleeping difficulties
  • Night shift workers or those experiencing seasonal blues
  • Individuals who enjoy highly customizable devices
  • Frequent travelers or those experiencing jet lag

Key features

  • Type of light. Blue light
  • Wavelength. 470 nm (blue light) and 660 nm (red light)
  • User experience. App offers a fully customizable experience
  • App. Yes
  • Best for. Energize and face the day

Our verdict

Unlike some light therapy glasses that can be difficult to incorporate into a busy schedule, AYO makes things easy with its comfortable fit and integrated app. Tailored for tech-savvy users, you can completely customize your light therapy experience and monitor your circadian rhythm.

Moreover, AYO’s commitment to providing high-quality products shines through its transparent manufacturing practices and collaboration with clinical and research centers.

AYO wearable can be yours for $229, though, mind you, without the app. Now, if you decide to choose the option that comes with the app — either the annual plan at $269 or the lifetime plan at $299 — you will be able to engage with additional functions of the device, including the intensity and session duration customization, along with the inclusion of the red light feature.

3. Re-Timer — most unique design with signature turquoise-green light

Person using Re-Timer 3 light therapy glasses while reading a Healthnews article on their computer

The Re-Timer 3 light therapy glasses use a signature blue-green light, which peaks at around 500 nm. Some limited evidence suggests this could address circadian rhythm misalignment and may assist with sleep issues, winter blues, or jet lag.

Offering customizable light therapy sessions, the device allows users to adjust session duration, brightness levels, and intensity, ensuring a tailored experience to align with your needs and wellness goals.

Its minimalist yet effective design features a large button that facilitates its operation, while its shape is purposefully crafted to bypass the eyebrows to ensure an optimal light delivery to the eyes. A charge of 3.5 hours yields up to 6 hours of usage, making it a reliable companion for those on the go.

Who might benefit from Re-Timer?

Re-Timer 3 is designed for comfort, portability, and easy integration into the lifestyle of even the busiest users. We have reviewed its key features and concluded that it may be particularly well-suited for:

  • Those who wear prescription glasses
  • Frequent travelers
  • Individuals experiencing winter blues or working night shifts
  • Tech-savvy users who enjoy keeping track of their lifestyle goals on their smartphones
  • Those planning to use the glasses in various settings, such as the office, gym, or outdoors

Key features

  • Type of light. Blue-green light
  • Wavelength. 500 nm
  • User experience. Possibility to connect the device with health apps
  • App. Yes
  • Best for. Those who value compact and elegant designs

Our verdict

Designed for portability and equipped with a long-lasting battery life, the Re-Timer 3 is an ideal companion for travelers and those with busy schedules. Convenient to fit into any routine, you can select the duration, brightness levels, and intensity of the device for a truly immersive experience. Additionally, the glasses can seamlessly integrate with Android Health and Apple Health, allowing for an easy and convenient experience.

Priced at €209 ($220.25*), Re-Timer 3 blends research-driven technology, thoughtful design, and long battery life, making it a versatile and quality product. It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.

* Please note that dollar-to-euro conversion rates can fluctuate frequently due to changes in the economic market

4. PEGASI — best lightweight, quick-charging glasses with customization options

PEGASI 2 light therapy glasses

The PEGASI 2 light therapy glasses are designed to be lightweight and user-friendly, making them ideal for both indoor use and outdoor activities like walking or running. They offer a UV-free blue-green light and various customizable modes on the PEGASI app for a personalized experience.

PEGASI recommends using the glasses for 30 minutes between 7 and 9 a.m. to support better sleep, increased energy, and an improved mood.

Combining convenience and comfort, these glasses are also certified by FCC, RoHS, and CE, making them a trustworthy option for those seeking premium providers.

Who might benefit from PEGASI?

We believe the PEGASI 2 is a versatile device that may be integrated easily into many routines and lifestyles, especially for the following users:

  • Those who wear prescription glasses
  • Individuals dealing with seasonal blues
  • Those looking to improve their sleep hygiene
  • Running or exercise enthusiasts
  • Users who lean toward lightweight and portable devices

Key features

  • Type of light. Blue-green light
  • Wavelength. 500 nm
  • User experience. Lightweight and comfortable design
  • App. Yes
  • Best for. Exercise lovers

Our verdict

Overall, we appreciate the convenience and UV-free design of the PEGASI 2. The accompanying app allows you to customize the glasses to your needs, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Its lightweight and easy design allows usage indoors and outdoors, especially for those who enjoy morning walks or stretches.

Moreover, we also enjoy that it is certified by FCC, RoHS, and CE, adding a layer of transparency and trustworthiness to the brand.

Priced at $179.99, with a 1-year warranty, it is available in two colors on Amazon.

Comparing the best light therapy glasses

ProductPriceWavelengthLight sourceBattery lifeWarrantyCertification
Luminette 3$199.00 468 nmBlue-enriched white light10 days2-yearEuropean CE classification
AYO$229.00–499.00 (+ app cost)470 nm and 660 nmBlue light7 days 1-yearEuropean CE classification, TÜV Rheinland
Re-Timer
€209 ($220.25*)500 nmBlue-green light 6 hours1-yearNA
PEGASI$179.99500 nmBlue-green lightNA1-yearFCC, RoHS, and CE

* Please note that dollar-to-euro conversion rates can fluctuate frequently due to changes in the economic market

How we evaluated the best light therapy glasses

Just like there's no one-size-fits-all approach to wellness, choosing the right light therapy glasses should be based on different needs and preferences. To help you make the best decision, we have reviewed over 20 providers and more than 15 research studies to gain a comprehensive understanding and identify those products that truly stand out.

For this purpose, we have created a methodology that guided us in the selection journey. We hope our approach serves as a useful tool to make informed decisions about your health:

PriceBrand transparencyFunctionalitiesDesign & comfort
Evaluating the quality-to-price ratio to justify the experienceCertified and adheres to international production standardsFeatures and customization optionsComfort and weight of the glasses
  • Price. We evaluated the features offered by numerous providers and selected those that are cost-effective, ensuring users get excellent value for their money.
  • Brand transparency. We have prioritized those brands that are certified and adhere to international standards in the production processes. Our team also valued information about the materials and technology behind the light therapy devices.
  • Functionalities. The features of a device play a crucial role in its convenience and usability. We focused on those glasses with customizable settings and companion apps for tracking the progress and features of each session.
  • Design and comfort. We looked at the design, weight, wearability, and fit of the glasses and assessed their ergonomics and comfort level.

What is light therapy?

Light therapy involves exposing the eyes to artificial light at specific times with the goal of re-aligning an individual’s circadian rhythm. While light therapy devices may vary in the intensity of light, wavelengths, and functionalities they share, they are all designed to help manage concerns like sleep issues, mood disorders, or fatigue — common challenges associated with circadian rhythm imbalances or disruptions.

Our eyes are highly sensitive to light, which not only enables vision but also helps regulate our internal body clocks. This process helps signal when to be alert, relaxed, or asleep. One key mechanism involves the secretion of melatonin, a hormone that guides our sleep-wake patterns. Light therapy may help to regulate the production of melatonin and play a role in improving sleep cycles. Additionally, it has also been associated with an increase in serotonin and noradrenaline levels — two neurotransmitters associated with enhanced mood and alertness.

While there is not a universally accepted wavelength for light therapy, some preclinical studies suggest that medium wavelengths in the violet, blue, and green spectrum may modulate the circadian clock. However, there are no definitive guidelines on the ideal wavelength or intensity. Moreover, studies involving humans are scarce, have methodological limitations, and show inconsistent results.

Light therapy may be beneficial for

There are two main types of light therapy devices: light therapy boxes and glasses. Research suggests that they offer similar benefits and are generally well-tolerated, with the main difference lying in user preference.

However, light therapy glasses may be used at different times of the day, depending on your health goals. Timing is crucial, and thus, many glasses come with apps that help you track your circadian rhythm, finding the optimal time for their use.

Benefits of light therapy glasses

Light therapy glasses are specialized eyewear designed to deliver targeted light directly to the wearer. These glasses aim to improve mood, boost energy levels, and reset disrupted sleep-wake cycles. Their portable design offers a hands-free approach to traditional light therapy.

benefits of light therapy glasses

Enhancing sleep

Melatonin, our sleep hormone, naturally peaks at night. However, factors like jet lag or night shift work can offset this rhythm, leading to difficulty falling and staying asleep.

Administering light therapy in the morning may suppress this misaligned melatonin synthesis, realigning its peak to nighttime. By restoring a natural sleep-wake cycle, light therapy may improve sleep patterns and help alleviate conditions like insomnia.

Combating jet lag

Traveling across multiple time zones can disrupt our body's circadian rhythm, the internal clock that dictates our sleep-wake cycle. When we travel, our internal clock remains synced to our original time zone, leading to a misalignment with the destination's day-night cycle. This misalignment results in jet lag, with symptoms like fatigue and insomnia.

Light therapy glasses assist globetrotters by emitting specific light wavelengths that stimulate the body to adjust its internal clock to the timezone of its travel destination. Through this recalibration, they can effectively mitigate the exhaustive effects of jet lag, aiding travelers in adapting swiftly to new time zones.

Improving mood

Seasonal affective disorder manifests with depressive symptoms during certain times of the year, typically in winter. Light therapy glasses, designed to replicate the positive aspects of natural sunlight, can prove beneficial. While the exact mechanism of action is yet to be confirmed, bright light therapy is believed to help shift the delayed phase of circadian rhythm and influence serotonin levels, a crucial neurotransmitter influencing mood.

By increasing serotonin levels and targeting winter changes in circadian rhythm, these glasses are believed to improve depressive symptoms and enhance overall mood, offering a ray of hope during darker periods. However, it is important to point out that the effectiveness of blue light therapy (often used in light therapy glasses) for SAD and other forms of depression is unproven.

Enhancing alertness and cognition

Early morning light therapy may boost alertness and cognition, especially in those grappling with sleep deprivation. Studies have shown that this intervention appears to offset sleep deprivation's negative effects by energizing neural systems associated with alertness. Sleep deprivation compromises crucial cognitive functions, such as attention span and reaction time.

Hence, for night shift workers, such a therapy may not only enhance their work productivity but can also play a pivotal role in ensuring their overall cognitive well-being.

A recent study published in Sleep Health assessed the use and effectiveness of Luminette glasses in sleep inertia also seems to confirm the findings of previous studies, suggesting modest improvements in self-rated alertness and energy. However, improvements in vigilance were not reported.

Portable therapy

Light therapy glasses are designed for adaptability and mobility. Unlike their stationary light box counterparts, these glasses are tailored to accommodate users on the go. Their design facilitates seamless integration into daily routines, allowing users to benefit from therapeutic light in varied contexts, from morning commutes to late-night work sessions. If the glasses have a better chance of being used, users will have a greater chance of benefiting from its potential benefits.

What are the side effects of light therapy glasses?

Light therapy glasses are generally considered safe for regular use, but like any therapeutic tool, they come with potential risks. Some of the concerns associated with the use of these devices include:

  • Mood changes, such as irritability
  • Eye discomfort or strain
  • Mild headaches
  • Aggravation of certain eye conditions
  • Skin sensitivity

Moreover, some relative contraindications to light therapy include patients taking photosensitizing drugs (e.g., neuroleptics, antidepressants, antibiotics, and others), those with pre-existing eye diseases, and elderly people.

To minimize risks, it's important to follow recommended usage guidelines and session durations. Choose a device that is free of ultraviolet rays and made from hypoallergenic materials. If you have a health condition or are taking medication, consult your doctor before using light therapy glasses.

Circadian rhythm: what is it?

The circadian rhythm is our body's internal clock. It regulates the sleep-wake cycle, repeating roughly every 24 hours. Governed primarily by the hypothalamus in the brain, this rhythm responds to external cues like light and darkness to synchronize our bodily functions with the day-night cycle. Besides governing sleep patterns, it influences hormone production, eating habits, digestion, body temperature, and cellular regeneration.

Light therapy glasses come into play by emitting specific wavelengths of light that interact with the photoreceptors in the retina of our eyes. Light information is then received by the retinal ganglion cells, which send signals to the brain via the optic nerve. These signals help regulate melatonin production — either promoting or suppressing it, depending on the timing of light exposure. Additionally, light therapy has been associated with increased serotonin levels, which may impact mood.

While these devices should not be considered treatments or cures for medical conditions, their suggested ability to influence circadian rhythm may help address concerns like seasonal affective disorder, sleep issues, work shift hours, or jet lag. Nevertheless, it is paramount to consult a healthcare professional before using the glasses to determine if they are right for you.

Researcher's insights

The popularity of light therapy glasses is growing in today's fast-paced environment, as many individuals look for holistic ways to improve their sleep quality. These devices aim to help adjust circadian rhythm, potentially helping those with sleep difficulties, shift work, jet lag, and seasonal disorders. To delve deeper into this circadian rhythm and its disorders, we sat down with Linas Černiauskas, MSc, PhD candidate in medicine, to gain a well-rounded perspective.

Is disturbed circadian rhythm a real term?

Like many terms popularized in the media, we wondered if the idea of disturbed circadian rhythm originated online or whether it represents a genuine health issue. According to Linas, while the term is widely used in mass media, it is referred to as Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorders (CRSWD) in the medical field.

“These are often defined as 'alterations in the sleep-wake rhythm resulting from changes to the underlying clock or its ability to synchronize with the external environment.' So, yes they are real medical conditions and those who experience them should seek professional help,” he highlighted.

He further clarified that CRSWD is categorized into two main types: intrinsic and extrinsic. “The causes of intrinsic type disorders are internal, meaning that the internal determinants of the sleep-wake cycle are disturbed. For instance, some individuals with these types of disorders go to sleep way later or earlier than the majority of people, they may frequently wake up during the night and have restless sleep, or their wake and sleep schedule is completely different from the usual light and dark environment cycle,” he noted.

On the other hand, extrinsic disorders happen when our body’s circadian rhythm becomes misaligned with the external environment. Jet lag or working night shifts, for instance, can lead to misalignment and result in CRSWD.

How to know if you have a Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder

Hearing Linas’ insights on circadian rhythm hit too close to home for some of our team members, prompting us to ask if there are ways to determine whether you have CRSWD.

Health Content Researcher

However, a diagnosis is not simple, especially with these types of disorders. Doctors may need additional information to pinpoint the cause or even monitor your sleep patterns for a long period. “They may also order some tests to measure your melatonin levels or ask you to wear specific sensors to monitor your sleep-wake cycle. This will help your doctor determine what type of CRSWD you have and what is the best action to take,” Linas concluded.

What is the difference between light therapy glasses and light boxes?

Both light therapy glasses and light boxes are designed to provide the same wellness benefits but differ in design and how they are used. Moreover, while bright white light is typically used in light boxes, light therapy glasses may also use blue or green light. We have compared them below so you can select the most optimal one for your needs:

Light therapy glasses vs. light therapy boxes

When should you get light therapy glasses?

Light therapy glasses can be particularly beneficial to help manage various health concerns, however, we believe they may be particularly a good choice if you experience:

  • Sleep problems. An irregular sleep-wake pattern can lead to health issues, and light therapy can aid in supporting a balanced circadian rhythm.
  • Frequently travel across time zones. These glasses can help in adjusting to the new time zone faster.
  • Suffer from seasonal affective disorder. It's a type of depression linked to seasonal changes, usually experienced during shorter winter days when sunlight exposure is limited.
  • Work shift hours. Night shifts may help to disrupt the natural sleep cycle. Using light therapy glasses may help to be more alert during work and potentially achieve a restful sleep afterward.

Consulting a healthcare professional before investing in light therapy glasses is always advisable.

Who cannot use LED light therapy?

Light therapy glasses are generally well-tolerated by healthy individuals. However, those with preexisting eye conditions, photosensitivity, or currently taking medications should exercise caution and always consult with a doctor to determine if the glasses are suitable for their specific needs.

That being said, if you experience any side effects or reactions after using light therapy glasses or light boxes, it is important to seek advice from a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable course of action.

Things to consider before getting light therapy glasses

Finding the perfect pair of glasses may seem challenging, but it’s achievable. That’s why we have summarized the aspects that we believe are key to making a good purchase. Think of this as your essential shopping guide.

What to consider before buying light therapy Glasses
  1. Set a budget. Before selecting a product, it is important to set your budget expectations. Look for a cost-effective product that fits into your lifestyle, ensuring you will use it regularly.
  2. Consider your routine. Consider how you plan to incorporate light therapy glasses into your routine. For instance, if you will be using them in the office, you may want to consider a more subtle and discreet design. However, if you will use them while exercising, prioritize models with an adjustable, secure fit.
  3. Select an optimal type of light and wavelength. Light therapy glasses offer various light and wavelength options. In this case, consulting with your doctor may be best to select a suitable option.
  4. Portability. If you will be traveling or using the glasses outside, consider a flexible design that can be easily packed in a bag or suitcase.

What to look for when choosing a reliable light therapy glasses company?

Choosing a reliable provider can be challenging, given the wide range of designs and features on the market. That’s why we have compiled several aspects to consider before saying yes to the glasses:

  • Scientific-backing. If the provider has participated in clinical studies or collaborates with scientific organizations, it is always a green flag.
  • Comfort. Choose devices that are comfortable and practical to use. If you wear prescription glasses, ensure the light therapy device is compatible. Lightweight and portable options are ideal to take on the go and incorporate into your daily routine.
  • Transparency and certifications. Opt for companies that are open about their manufacturing practices and hold certifications from recognized bodies such as CE or FCC. These certifications indicate adherence to strict production standards.
  • Health claims. Select providers that are clear about their benefits and user experience. Avoid companies that make exaggerated health claims or promise that their products can treat a health condition.

Final thoughts

Light therapy glasses are becoming a go-to solution for many people dealing with sleep issues, seasonal mood changes, or jet lag. While most benefits are anecdotal, science has shed light on the potential of specific light wavelengths to have positive outlooks on health.

In this landscape, opting for high-quality, user-friendly, and comfortable devices is the key to finding light therapy glasses that easily integrate into your routine. Moreover, getting acquainted with user feedback is also crucial for setting realistic expectations about product performance. With that in mind, we hope you have found the perfect companion to use at home, in the office, or wherever life takes you.

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Comments

Don White
prefix 1 year ago
Excellent review, very thorough and helpful. Thank you for the generous discount code on the Luminette 3!