Lightbox for seasonal depression

Pricing, Benefits, and How to Use

The Best SAD Lamps: Pricing, Benefits, and How to Use

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Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — By Corey Whelan and Emma Ruben — Updated on January 11, 2023

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

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Symptoms of SAD

There are two types of SAD: wintertime and summertime. SAD affects people differently, but the symptoms may vary based on the type of SAD.

Symptoms of wintertime SAD include:

daytime fatigue
difficulty concentrating
feelings of hopelessness
increased irritability
lack of interest in social activities
lethargy
reduced sexual interest
unhappiness
weight gain

Symptoms of summertime SAD include:

agitation
difficulty sleeping
increased restlessness
lack of appetite
weight loss

In severe cases, people with SAD may experience thoughts of suicide.

Treatment options for SAD

Counseling and therapy are treatment options for both forms of SAD. Some people may also benefit from medications such as antidepressants such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin). People experiencing SAD should speak to their doctor about which medication is the best course of treatment.

Light therapy can also be used as a treatment for wintertime SAD. This involves using a specialized light box or visor for at least 30 minutes each day to mimic natural light. Light therapy should only be used under a doctor’s supervision and on approved devices. Other light-emitting sources like tanning beds, are not safe for use.

Another type of treatment is a dawn simulator which uses a time-activated light to mimic the sunrise as a way to help stimulate the body’s clock.

Adopting some healthy lifestyle habits can also help minimize SAD symptoms. This can include:

a balanced diet with lean protein, fruits, and vegetables
exercise
regular sleep

Keep in mind

If you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.

Some research shows that light therapy can help improve seasonal depression, even with as little as 20 minutes of exposure. Although the FDA doesn’t regulate SAD lamps, Healthline’s medical affairs team still every pick and brand, diving into medical credibility, the company’s reputation, and its business practices.

We chose the options on this list based on the following criteria:

Intensity: All the picks on this list have at least 10,000 lux, the standard intensity for effectiveness.
Reputation: Each SAD lamp we feature comes from a reputable brand that doesn’t make egregious health claims.
Price: We were mindful of different budgets by including options from various price points.
User reviews: We chose only highly rated options that current users love and don’t have any major complaints about.

Pricing guide

$ = under $100
$$ = $100–$200
$$$ = over $200

Best adjustable SAD lamp

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp

Price: $$
Features: flexible stand, 2 light settings, glare-free for eye comfort
Size of light panel: 15. 5 x 13.5 inches
Who it’s best for: anyone looking for a customizable lamp that can work well in any space, at any angle
Lux: 10,000

This lamp has a large surface area of 15.5 by 13.5 inches. It generates 10,000 lux and projects light in a downward motion — this helps keep it glare-free no matter how it’s positioned.

The lampstand is adjustable, so chances are it will be comfortable to use no matter your height or chair type. Users say the lampstand doesn’t wobble and that the lamp reaches full lumens quickly for maximum benefit.

Pro

large surface area
glare-free
adjustable

Cons

pricey

Shop now at Amazon

Best UV-free SAD lamp

Northern Light Technologies Boxelite

Price: $$
Features: full-spectrum UV-free light, 5 different height levels, adjustable
Size of light panel: 12. 25 x 17 inches
Who it’s best for: those who like to sit further away from the light source (it’s effective at 14 inches)
Lux: 10,000

In addition to features such as 10,000 lux and a large surface screen, this SAD lamp is designed to last. Many users rave about it 7 or more years after purchase.

The lamp includes long lasting fluorescent bulbs and is UV-free. It also features five different height levels and is easily adjustable. Note that it weighs 11 pounds and is heavier than many other lamps.

Pros

UV-free
long lasting

Cons

heavier than other options on our list

Shop now at Amazon

Best portable SAD lamp

Circadian Optics Lattis Light Therapy Lamp

Price: $
Features: 3 brightness levels, fixed position, one-touch operation
Size of light panel: 6 x 15.75 inches
Who it’s best for: those who want their light to blend in a little better with their decor
Lux: 10,000

If you love the look of modern decor, this lamp may be right for you. It features 10,000 lux of LED, UV-free, full-spectrum white light. It also boasts three brightness levels, so you can uptick or downtick the amount of light you receive.

Many users prefer LED to fluorescent light because it lasts longer. This lamp has a small surface area and a fixed position, which doesn’t allow for adjustment. Even so, it may be great for small spaces or as a lamp for travel.

Pros

stylish look
UV-free
3 brightness levels

Cons

much larger than other options
may not be everyone’s taste

Shop now at Amazon

Best SAD lamp for leisure

Flamingo Floor Lamp

Price: $$
Features: adjustable, rotating head, taller than most
Size of light panel: 7 x 13 inches
Who it’s best for: anyone who’s looking for a little more versatility in where they can get their light therapy
Lux: 10,000

This 46-inch-tall lamp is a great option for those who want to position their SAD lamp near a treadmill or glider. It also fits neatly into corners for use while reading or watching TV.

This floor lamp provides 10,000 lux of full-spectrum, UV-free, LED light. It’s also glare-free and adjustable. Users love the sturdy design and long lasting light bulbs, which typically last for about 5 years. Assembly is required.

Pros

UV-free
full-spectrum LED light
glare-free
comes with long lasting light bulbs

Cons

assembly required

Shop now at Amazon

Best affordable SAD lamp

TaoTronics Light Therapy Lamp

Price: $
Features: timer, 4 brightness levels, memory function
Size of light panel: 5.5 x 5.5 inches
Who it’s best for: anyone looking for a compact option and doesn’t mind sitting closer to the panel
Lux: 10,000

While this portable option has a smaller screen size than recommended, it still delivers good value for its size and cost.

Designed for on-the-go use, this lamp provides 10,000 lux and one-touch controls.

Pros

portable
one-touch controls

Cons

might be too small for some users

Shop now at TaoTronics

	Price	Who it’s best for	Considerations
Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp	$$	anyone looking for a customizable lamp that can work well in any space, at any angle	adjustable, but always faces in a downward position to reduce glare
Northern Light Technologies Boxelite	$$	those who like to sit further away from the light source (it’s effective at 14 inches)	adjustable and has a larger light panel so you can sit further away
Circadian Optics Lattis Light Therapy Lamp	$	those who want their light to blend in a little better with their decor	blends well with decor but has a fixed position and doesn’t adjust
Flamingo Floor Lamp	$$	anyone looking for a little more versatility in where they can get their light therapy	light angle is adjustable but not the height
TaoTronics Light Therapy Lamp	$	anyone looking for a compact option and doesn’t mind sitting closer to the panel	compact, but you have to sit closer to the light panel since it’s smaller than others on the list

A SAD lamp uses light therapy to replicate sunlight. It can trick the body into thinking it is a warmer month and cause the body to release serotonin.

The light produced by a SAD lamp is measured in lux. A lux is a measurement of light intensity combined with area. A SAD lamp should offer a brightness of 10,000 lux. The viewing angle of a lamp should allow it to be positioned above the eyes and at a slight downward angle to minimize glare.

Typically, SAD lamps or lights should be used for 30 minutes to an hour. They can be used at any time of day, although they’re usually used first thing in the morning.

SAD lamps are not regulated by the FDA.

SAD lamps simulate sunlight, which helps trigger the brain to release serotonin, often called the feel-good hormone.

Studies show that using light therapy during periods when daylight hours are short can help adjust your circadian rhythm, the body’s process for regulating your sleep-wake cycle. This is beneficial for improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression.

Light therapy has become an accepted practice for alleviating SAD and other conditions such as:

jet lag
dementia
circadian rhythm sleep disorders

There are many lamps and light boxes marketed as SAD or light therapy lamps. Not all of these products are effective or appropriate for this use.

The FDA doesn’t regulate SAD lamps, so it’s important to buy one that provides enough light and is designed to treat SAD.

Here are some features to look for:

Safety

Don’t get a light box that’s designed to treat skin conditions. These devices aren’t meant to treat mood disorders and they won’t be effective.
Make sure the lamp filters out ultraviolet (UV) light and is labeled UV-free. UV light can damage your eyes and skin.
Follow the instructions supplied by the manufacturers.
Use eye protection if you have existing eye issues.

Specs

The lamp should generate 10,000 lux of cool-white, fluorescent light. An output of 10,000 lux is approximately 20 times greater than the light output generated by most indoor lighting. Lamps with less lux may need to be used more often than brighter ones.
Opt for a glare-free lamp or a lamp that can be positioned at a downward angle that reduces or eliminates eye glare.

Size

Look for a lamp with a light surface area of around 12 by 15 inches. The larger the surface area, the higher the lux. Larger lamps also provide you with the option of moving around more, so you can be farther away from the lamp without compromising its effectiveness.
Smaller lamps aren’t as effective and may need to be used more often for longer sessions. That said, you may wish to purchase a second, smaller lamp if you travel a lot. Your doctor can provide individualized lamp use guidelines.

Personal style and needs

Think about what activity you would like to do while using the lamp and purchase one that will accommodate that purpose. For example, light boxes have been shown to help with jet lag. So, if you travel frequently, you may want to choose a small, portable option.
Lamp styles vary. You may be better off getting an attractive lamp that matches your décor so it can stay in position for use. For maximum benefit, you’ll want to use the lamp at least once daily, so having it out and easily accessible can be a plus.

Don’t start using a SAD lamp without your doctor’s approval: This is especially important if you have a diagnosis such as bipolar disorder, glaucoma, or lupus.
Always get the green light from your doctor if you’re taking prescription medications of any kind, including antipsychotics and antidepressants: Remember that some prescription medications and over-the-counter supplements can make your skin photosensitive, requiring an adjustment to your use of the lamp. These medications include lithium, some acne drugs, and St. John’s wort.
Use the lamp daily: You can use it until daylight hours increase.
Experiment with time frame: Many people benefit from as little as 20 minutes of use. Others require 60 minutes, which is typically considered the highest exposure you should get. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and slowly increase the amount of time spent in front of a SAD lamp. Avoid exceeding more than 60 minutes of use.
Consider when to use it: Many experts recommend using a SAD lamp first thing in the morning. Your doctor might also recommend that you use it during the day. Keep in mind that more isn’t always better. Overuse of a SAD lamp can produce insomnia or other side effects.
Follow manufacturer recommendations for the position: Your lamp should come with recommendations for how close you should position yourself to it. This is very important, as your distance from it will affect the lamp’s lux capacity.
Position the lamp so that it’s providing you with downward light: This will ensure that it doesn’t shine directly into your eyes.
Talk with your doctor about how to best stop using the lamp: It may be most appropriate for you to wean yourself off slowly. Spending time outdoors, especially in the mornings, can help this process.

Although light therapy is helpful for people who bipolar disorder, be sure to consult with a doctor before introducing it daily. A medical professional who is familiar with your physical and mental health history will be able to help you figure out if light therapy is a good option for you.

Some studies show that SAD lamps can help boost mood and alleviate symptoms of seasonal depression, but they’re not a substitute for proper mental health care. If you feel that your depression is severe or you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s time to speak with a healthcare professional. Check in with a doctor or mental health professional if:

You feel sad and hopeless nearly every day.
You no longer experience pleasure in hobbies or activities you used to enjoy.
You can’t sleep or are spending too much time sleeping.
You’re feeling irritated and annoyed nearly every day.
Symptoms are interfering with your quality of life.
You’re gaining or losing weight unexpectedly.

Can SAD lamps damage your skin or eyes?

UV light should be filtered out of SAD lamps, so they shouldn’t damage your eyes or skin. However, light boxes used to treat certain skin conditions do emit UV light, so you should be sure that your light box is designed to treat SAD.

Can SAD lamps increase vitamin D levels?

While some people have found that SAD lamps can increase vitamin D levels over time, there’s not enough research to confirm this. Vitamin D is produced by UV light, and most SAD lamps don’t have that.

According to the FDA, UV lights can cause damage to the skin and should be used with caution. Long-term exposure to UV rays can also cause premature aging and skin cancer. If you’re using UV lights on your skin, be sure to speak with your doctor first.

How bright are SAD lamps?

The recommended brightness for SAD lamps is typically 10,000 lux.

How long does it take a SAD lamp to start working?

The University of British Columbia found that people can start to respond to light therapy within a few days and you should see improvements within 2 weeks. Be sure to speak to your doctor if your body does not respond to a SAD lamp after 2 weeks.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t use a SAD lamp?

You should avoid using a SAD lamp if you have an increased sensitivity to light. This may be due to:

macular degeneration
a connective tissue disorder
lupus

Interested in other resources for mental health?

We’re here to help. Explore our evidence-driven reviews of top services, products, and more to support your physical and emotional well-being.

SAD can often be alleviated with proactive lifestyle changes. These include:

going to bed early and waking up at or near dawn
going outside for extended periods of time, especially first thing in the morning
avoiding substances that can adversely affect your ability to sleep, such as alcohol
eating whole, nutrient-rich foods
exercising
seeking out professional help from a counselor or therapist

How to find a therapist for seasonal affective disorder

SAD can bring up serious feelings of depression, so consider talking with a mental health professional.

You don’t need to have received a SAD diagnosis to seek out help, though. Even if you’re just feeling more down than usual, it’s OK to talk with a therapist or counselor.

When looking for a mental health professional, you’ll want to specifically search for someone who has experience treating SAD, major depressive disorder, or depressive episodes.

If leaving the house is too intimidating, you can check out online therapy or online psychiatry platforms, too.

Major depressive disorder with seasonal pattern, previously known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a condition caused by lowered exposure to sunlight or a change of seasons. Women and young adults are most affected by this condition.

Using a SAD lamp, also known as a light box, can help alleviate symptoms, boosting your mood.

SAD lamps can be effective when used as a solo treatment or combined with other forms of treatment. Either way, always use these lamps under a doctor’s supervision.

Last medically reviewed on January 11, 2023

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Chandra P, et al. (2010). Treatment of vitamin D deficiency with UV lights in patients with malabsorption syndromes: A case series.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC2846322/
Eastman CI, et al. (2010). How to travel the world without jet lag.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2829880/
Faulkner SM, et al. (2018). Light therapies to improve sleep in intrinsic circadian rhythm sleep disorders and neuro-psychiatric illness: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1087079218301886
Gagan V, et al. (2010). Short exposure to light treatment improves depression scores in patients with seasonal affective disorder: A brief report.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2913518/
Gallin PF, et al. (1995). Ophthalmologic examination of patients with seasonal affective disorder, before and after bright light therapy.
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Gottlieb JF, et al. (2019). The chronotherapeutic treatment of bipolar disorders: a systematic review and practice recommendations from the ISBD task force on chronotherapy and chronobiology.
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Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Jan 11, 2023

Written By

Corey Whelan, Emma Ruben

Edited By

Melissa Lee

Medically Reviewed By

Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT

Copy Edited By

Anne Arntson

Sep 19, 2022

Written By

Corey Whelan, Emma Ruben

Edited By

Melissa Lee

Medically Reviewed By

Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT

Copy Edited By

Naomi Farr

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Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — By Corey Whelan and Emma Ruben — Updated on January 11, 2023

Pricing, Benefits, and How to Use

The Best SAD Lamps: Pricing, Benefits, and How to Use

Health Conditions
- Featured
  - Breast Cancer
  - IBD
  - Migraine
  - Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
  - Rheumatoid Arthritis
  - Type 2 Diabetes
- Articles
  - Acid Reflux
  - ADHD
  - Allergies
  - Alzheimer's & Dementia
  - Bipolar Disorder
  - Cancer
  - Crohn's Disease
  - Chronic Pain
  - Cold & Flu
  - COPD
  - Depression
  - Fibromyalgia
  - Heart Disease
  - High Cholesterol
  - HIV
  - Hypertension
  - IPF
  - Osteoarthritis
  - Psoriasis
  - Skin Disorders and Care
  - STDs
Discover
- Wellness Topics
  - Nutrition
  - Fitness
  - Skin Care
  - Sexual Health
  - Women's Health
  - Mental Well-Being
  - Sleep
- Product Reviews
  - Vitamins & Supplements
  - Sleep
  - Mental Health
  - Nutrition
  - At-Home Testing
  - CBD
  - Men’s Health
- Original Series
  - Fresh Food Fast
  - Diagnosis Diaries
  - You’re Not Alone
  - Present Tense
- Video Series
  - Youth in Focus
  - Healthy Harvest
  - No More Silence
  - Future of Health
Plan
- Health Challenges
  - Mindful Eating
  - Sugar Savvy
  - Move Your Body
  - Gut Health
  - Mood Foods
  - Align Your Spine
- Find Care
  - Primary Care
  - Mental Health
  - OB-GYN
  - Dermatologists
  - Neurologists
  - Cardiologists
  - Orthopedists
- Lifestyle Quizzes
  - Weight Management
  - Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
  - Are You a Workaholic?
  - How Well Do You Sleep?
- Tools & Resources
  - Health News
  - Find a Diet
  - Find Healthy Snacks
  - Drugs A-Z
  - Health A-Z
Connect
- - Breast Cancer
  - Inflammatory Bowel Disease
  - Psoriatic Arthritis
  - Migraine
  - Multiple Sclerosis
  - Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — By Corey Whelan and Emma Ruben — Updated on January 11, 2023

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.