We’ve all had times during the cold seasons when the dark and short days outside can take a toll on your mood, right? But there are many ways to tackle the winter blues or even support seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Light therapy has shown potential to be a safe method in alleviating symptoms of SAD and bringing back your sunshine-like self. By mimicking natural sunlight, light therapy lamps can help regulate your sleep cycle, boost mood-enhancing hormones, and leave you feeling more energized. Ready to find the perfect lamp to brighten your days? We've compiled a list of the best light therapy lamps for 2024 to help you find the perfect match.
Best light therapy lamps 2024: shortlist
- Verilux — best light therapy lamp in 2024 overall
- Sunrise Sensations — well-designed light therapy lamp
- Carex — daylight lamp best for working from home
- Verilux Halo — cordless and portable seasonal depression lamp
- Northern Light Technologies — premium sunlight therapy lamp with large panel
- TaoTronics — smart SAD lamp best for traveling
- Northern Light Technologies Flamingo — floor light therapy lamp for bigger spaces
- TaoTronics Round Emotion Refresher LED — compact sunlight therapy lamp with customizable brightness
- Lumie Vitamin L — best light therapy lamp ideal for bedroom
- Erligpowht Light — most affordable light therapy lamp
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How did we choose the best light therapy lamps?
With many light therapy lamps on the internet, it can be daunting to pick the best one. That’s why we've meticulously reviewed and compared numerous light therapy lamps based on the following key factors:
Type | Adjustable settings | Light intensity | Price |
Table, floor, travel | Brightness, temperature, height and angle, control panel | 10,000 lux (optimal level) | $25.99–294.29 |
- Type. We considered various types of lamps, including desks, floors, travel lights, and lightboxes.
- Adjustable settings. We picked lamps with adjustable features like brightness levels, timers, color temperatures, and more. With these features, you can customize your light therapy experience.
- Light intensity. Light intensity, measured in lux, is key for light therapy. We chose lamps offering at least 10,000 lux. Also, we prioritized UV-free lamps for safety, ensuring your eyes are protected during use.
- Price. We chose lamps across a spectrum of price points, from budget-friendly options to feature-rich models, so you can find a lamp that fits your budget.
Best light therapy lamps: overview
For this guide, we aimed to find the best light therapy lamps for diverse user needs – from workspace or bedroom use to travel, portability-focused users. Find our top sunlight lamps analyzed below:
1. Verilux Duo — top light therapy lamp in 2024
The best light therapy lamp on our list is the Verilux HappyLight Duo floor lamp. We liked how versatile and adjustable it is, catering to diverse user needs.
Verilux Duo is a 2-in-1 light therapy floor lamp suitable for readers, artists, crafters, or anyone looking for a truly adjustable lamp. You can choose from 3 HappyHue™ temperatures, 5 brightness levels, and adjust the gooseneck 360 degrees as well as height.
Verilux Duo is easy to use with its touch control panel and LED lifespan of 50,000 hours. We especially liked that it’s also UV-free light with 10,000 lux intensity.
Verilux Duo is $129.99 and comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee. All bulbs and replacement parts have a 60-day guarantee, and the lamp has a 3-year warranty.
2. Sunrise Sensations — light therapy lamp with exceptional design
Another pick for the best light therapy lamps is Sunrise Sensations DayBright. Its function is to stimulate natural light and combine a modern design, which can be used as an interior element.
DayBright lamp is made of solid wood from FSC-certified forests. We really liked this feature, as the wood gives the lamp a great look. You can adjust and customize the brightness between 5,000 and 10,000 lux and select the color temperature with a handy remote control.
Therefore, this lamp is easy to use for any level user and it contains UV-free LEDs. Even though DayBright may not be as adjustable as other floor or table lamps, as you cannot adjust its height or position, users seem to love it.
Sunrise Sensations DayBright therapy lamp price is $199.99 and it comes with a 1-year warranty.
3. Carex — sunlight lamp ideal for any workspace
Carex Day-Light Classic Plus lamp is a versatile option. It's perfect for working from home, reading, or other daily activities.
Carex is a table lamp that projects the light downwards, is height and angle-adjustable, and delivers a full-spectrum light with a 4000K color temperature. We also discovered it has 2 brightness levels and provides 10,000 lux.
As this lamp has quite a big surface (larger than standard), we don’t recommend it for smaller spaces but it will fit in your home workspace. It also blocks 100% of UV.
Carex lamp starts at $134.99 and is supported by a 5-year warranty (one of the longest warranty periods we found).
4. Verilux Halo — cordless and budget-friendly sunlight lamp
Verilux Halo therapy lamp is a great portable light therapy lamp with a rechargeable battery for easy moving or even traveling.
The HappyLight Halo model really stood out for us with its smart features: cordless design for up to 2 hours of uninterrupted light therapy, magnetic rotating base for charging, UV-free light with 10,000 lux, 3 HappyHue™ color temperatures, and even 4 brightness levels.
It's easy to control – the touch buttons on the back let you adjust the settings and even program the timer.
Verilux HappyLight Halo is $89.99. For your convenience, there’s a 3-year warranty.
5. Northern Light Technologies BOXelite — premium daylight lamp with large panel
Northern Light Technologies BOXelite table lamp is one of the best for light therapy but comes with a higher price tag. Its large panel delivers 10,000 lux and is best for larger spaces.
One of the features we appreciate about this light lamp is its size – it perfectly diffuses the light across the whole room. It comes with a cord, and the light is UV-free.
In terms of ease of use, there is only one power button, so you’ll have only one brightness setting without being able to adjust anything else.
You can get a BOXelite lamp for $256.79. While premium-priced, it also provides a 7-year warranty in case any issues occur.
6. TaoTronics LED — ultra-thin lamp for traveling
TaoTronics LED lamp is a book-like foldable therapy lamp, which you can carry wherever you go. Its design and smart features allow you to enjoy light therapy on-the-go.
TaoTronics LED lamp comes with an array of features we enjoyed. First off, auto power off when the lamp is folded up is super handy if you’re traveling. The brightness can be adjusted up to 10,000 lux with the touch of a button and the stand can be adjusted between 40-100 degrees to position the light as needed.
There’s an easy timer – you turn it on by pressing the power button until it lights up, which indicates successful activation. Besides, we liked that you can adjust the color temperature (6500K).
TaoTrocnis LED is really affordable – the price starts at $59.99. There’s a 12-month warranty in any case.
7. Northern Light Technologies Flamingo — luminous floor therapy lamp suitable for big spaces
Northern Light Technologies Flamingo model is one of a few floor therapy lamps on our list. It’s best for bigger spaces and is made of high-quality materials.
Same as the BOXelite model we covered, the Flamingo lamp is electronically powered and assures reliable performance with no flicker and no hum but has no brightness or adjustment settings.
However, it stands 4 feet tall when fully assembled, and has a rotating head, which allows you to angle the light as you want. It offers 10,000 lux of diffused light and quality metal construction.
The Flamingo sunlight lamp is a pricey option – it costs $294.29 and comes with a 7-year unlimited warranty.
8. TaoTronics Round Emotion Refresher LED — ultra-compact light therapy lamp with elegant design
Another very affordable light therapy lamp on our list is the TaoTronics Round Emotion Refresher LED – it comes with 60 energy-saving LEDs, easy touch control, and is of elegant shell shape.
Very similar to the Verilux Halo therapy lamp, TaoTronics Round Emotion supports your gloomy moods with 10,000 lux, while filtering most of the UV rays. We liked that it comes in mini size, 60 energy-saving LEDs, 6500K lighting, smooth brightness adjustment, easy touch control, and a solid stand.
The control is simple – you just need to tap the power button to turn it on or off and hold the brightness button for adjustments. It could be used on a nightstand or coffee table and fits small spaces perfectly.
TaoTronics Round Emotion lamp is very affordable – $39.99 (12-month warranty included).
9. Lumie Vitamin L — light therapy lamp for the bedroom with single-button control
Lumie Vitamin L is a great pick for your bedroom or home office to support the winter blues. L represents the beneficial properties of light therapy in supporting energy levels and sleep-wake cycle throughout the year.
This option has a slim and portable design with a versatile orientation. It can used in portrait or landscape mode and has 10,000 lux with cool white LEDs (UV-free).
Another feature we noticed is its minimalist approach to the control – a single power button, so you won’t have any issues with many control buttons.
Lumie Vitamin L lamps cost $99 and you get to try it for free for 45 days.
10. Erligpowht Light — most budget-friendly light lamp
Erligpowht Light is the most affordable therapy lamp model on our list.
This light therapy lamp is super portable and has a stand, so you can place it anywhere you want. In terms of features, there are quite a few – a smart timer, 3 brightness adjustment levels, and a 90-degree rotation standing bracket.
Erligpowht Light promises to emit 10,000 lux but, due to its small screen, it may feel a little bit less bright than other lamps.
Price-wise, this light lamp is the most affordable – it costs only $25.99.
Best light therapy lamps: comparison
Product | Type | Light intensity (lux) | Brightness settings | Features | Starting price |
Verilux Duo | Floor lamp | 10,000 | 5 | 3 color temperatures, flexible gooseneck, adjustable height | $129.99 |
Sunrise Sensations | Table lamp | 10,000 | Customizable (from 5,500 lux to 10,000 lux) | Remote control, FSC-Certified natural solid wood, sleek design | $199.99 |
Carex | Table lamp | 10,000 | 2 | Adjustable height and angle, 100% UV protection, 4000K color temperature | $134.99 |
Verilux Halo | Table lamp | 10,000 | 4 | 3 temperature settings, cordless, countdown timer | $89.99 |
Northern Light Technologies BOXelite | Table lamp | 10,000 | Not available | Big screen surface, power cord included, no UV and low EMF | $256.79 |
TaoTronics LED | Table lamp | 10,000 | Customizable (from 20% to 100%) | 6500K color temperature, smooth dimming, memory function | $59.99 |
Northern Light Technologies Flamingo | Floor lamp | 10,000 | Not available | No UV or magnetic field, electronically powered, metal construction | $294.29 |
TaoTronics Round Emotion Refresher LED | Table lamp | 10,000 | Customizable from 20% to 100%) | Elegant design, easy touch control, 6500K lightning | $39.99 |
Lumie Vitamin L | Table lamp | 10,000 | Not available | Single-button control, portable design, detachable stand | $99 |
Erligpowht Light | Table lamp | 10,000 | 3 | Built-in stand, timer, small and portable design | $25.99 |
Understanding light therapy lamps
Ever feel sluggish and unmotivated as the days get shorter? We've all been there. During winter, with less natural sunlight exposure, our internal clock gets a little out of whack. Altered levels of melatonin, the sleep hormone, may lead to symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
The science behind light therapy is limited, but emerging hypotheses suggest a link to mood regulation. So, if shorter days leave you feeling down, light therapy might be a solution to help you feel brighter and more energized throughout the winter. However, further research is essential to substantiate these health claims.
What is light therapy?
Light therapy is exposure to direct sunlight or artificial light to manage symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and improve overall mental well-being.
Light therapy helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle. Imagine waking up to a gentle light simulation from your light therapy lamp instead of the jarring blare of an alarm clock. This can suppress melatonin production, potentially leaving us feeling more energized.
How does it work?
By mimicking natural sunlight, light therapy lamps emit bright light, usually around 10,000 lux. Using light therapy lamps in the early morning hours may imitate sunrise, making you feel more awake and upbeat.
To get the most out of the light therapy, place the lamp comfortably (16-24 inches away) and avoid staring directly at it. Use it daily, especially during your waking hours. Light therapy works best with a healthy lifestyle, so stay active and incorporate a healthy diet too. If you’re looking to improve your sleep, consider also trying devices like blue light glasses.
Choosing the right lamp
With so many light therapy lamps on the market, choosing the best one for you could be complex. That’s why we highlighted some factors you should look at when choosing a lamp:
- Size. Do you need a compact option for your desk or a larger light box for a brighter experience? If you struggle to wake up in the morning, a bedside lamp might be the best one, but if you, like us, crave sunshine while working from home, a desk lamp could be more suitable.
- Price. Light therapy lamps range from budget-friendly options to feature-rich models. Consider your needs and how much you can spend on it.
- Features. Some lamps offer adjustable brightness levels, timers, and more features. Think about what functions would make using the lamp most convenient for you.
- User reviews. Reading feedback from people who have already tried the product can be incredibly helpful. See what others think about specific lamps before making your choice.
Effective light therapy tips
To maximize the benefits of light therapy, we found some helpful tips for you to have in mind:
- Consistency is key. Aim for daily use, ideally within the first hour of waking up. This helps regulate your circadian rhythm by mimicking natural sunlight.
- Timing matters. Early morning exposure is most effective. Avoid using the lamp close to bedtime as it may disrupt sleep.
- Finding the sweet spot. Position the lamp at a comfortable distance according to the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, this ranges from 16 to 24 inches from your face. You can read or work while exposed to the light, but avoid staring directly at it.
- Protect your eyes. You can keep your eyes open but don’t look directly into the light. Look for light boxes that come with a UV filter feature.
When to see a doctor
Emerging evidence suggests that light therapy may be a beneficial tool, but it's not a one-size-fits-all gadget. If you're experiencing persistent symptoms of depression, whether SAD-related or not, consulting a doctor is crucial.
They can provide a proper diagnosis and determine if light therapy is suitable for you. Similarly, if you've started using a light therapy lamp and your SAD symptoms persist or worsen, seek professional help.
Additionally, it's important to talk to your doctor before using light therapy lamps if you have any psychiatric disorders, like bipolar disorder, or past or current eye problems, such as glaucoma.
Best light therapy lamps: conclusion
Light therapy may be beneficial if you’re experiencing winter blues, sleep issues, or even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). By imitating natural sunlight, these lamps can regulate your sleep cycle, increase your "happiness" hormones, and improve your overall mood and energy.
We know that finding a quality sunlight lamp can be hard, so this guide has equipped you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Remember to consider factors like size, price, features, and other users' reviews to find the lamp that best suits your lifestyle.
Further reading on light therapy devices
Best red light therapy for knee – best red light devices to support knee issues.
Discover the best red light therapy devices for multiple skin health benefits.
Help improve your sleep patterns with some of the best light therapy glasses.
FAQ
Do light therapy lamps actually work?
Yes, emerging scientific evidence shows that light therapy lamps are associated with improvements in sleep and mood, especially during winter months. Consult your doctor before starting to check if it's right for you.
How many minutes a day should you use a light therapy lamp?
The advised daily use of a light therapy lamp typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes. Of course, this can vary depending on the lamp's intensity (lux) and your doctor's advice. We recommend consulting a healthcare professional to confirm the optimal session length for you.
Who should avoid light therapy?
You should avoid light therapy if you have eye diseases, like macular degeneration, are taking photosensitizing medications, or have bipolar disorder. People with certain skin conditions or a history of skin cancer may also need to avoid it. Consult with a doctor before implementing this into your daily routine.
Do light therapy lamps provide vitamin D?
Yes, research shows that broad-spectrum light therapy has wavelengths between 280-320 nm, which allow the skin to produce vitamin D. Therefore, some light therapy lamps can help you produce vitamin D.
4 resources
- National Institute of Mental Health Seasonal Affective Disorder.
- National Library of Medicine Bright Light Therapy: Seasonal Affective Disorder and Beyond.
- National Library of Medicine Short exposure to light treatment improves depression scores in patients with seasonal affective disorder: A brief report.
- The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging Vitamin D vs broad spectrum phototherapy in the treatment of seasonal affective disorder.
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