Light Therapy Lamps by Verilux

Light Therapy, also known as Phototherapy, is a growing field of research and product development which uses light as therapy to treat the symptoms of many diverse, but common, medical problems. Light therapy uses different colors of light to treat different ailments. For example, full spectrum or natural "white" sunlight is effective in treating the depression and sleep disorders associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD or winter blues). Narrow spectrum, blue light therapy, is being used to treat insomnia. Full Spectrum dawn simulation is being used to treat sleep disorders and allow people to sleep soundly by regulating circadian sleep cycles. Light therapy for skincare harnesses the soothing qualities of both red and blue light. Indeed, these are very exciting times for those interested in light therapy - the realization that people can treat their problems in an effective manner, free of drugs, and free of real side effects.

Evolution of Light Therapy - Full Spectrum Light

Light therapy is a relatively new area of medical research. The first studies were done in the early 1980’s on the use of bright light or full spectrum light to treat the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder that result from a lack of daylight due to seasonal changes. Estimates of people affected with SAD range as high as 10% of populations in the northern US and Europe. Through these studies and the research and development of light technology to more closely simulate natural sunlight, an entire generation of SAD sufferers have been able to live a more normal life. These devices (know as a “light box”, “sun box” or “SAD light”) make use of full spectrum light to simulate the light coming from the sun.

Video - watch light therapy pioneer Dr. Norman Rosenthal, the originator of the phrase "Seasonal Affective Disorder", discussing Light Therapy and his book "Winter Blues".

How full spectrum light works

Full spectrum light works as a very effective "sleep switch" - by switching off the production of melatonin, the hormone that promotes sleep. The use of a light box for 20-30 minutes in the morning acts just as the sun does on a bright, cool, summer day to energize you and get you motivated. During the winter months the loss of precious morning sunlight is more pronounced, making the use of a sun box in those dark winter months even more necessary.>

Verilux Helps

Verilux is extremely proud of its contribution to the research and development of full spectrum light therapy products - and the positive impact they've had on people's lives. Our HappyLight and HappyLight Mini are the #1 SAD lights on the market. Over the years, we have been constantly reminded by our customers how these products improve their concentration, elevate their mood, help them sleep better and make those winter blues just fade away. That's why we back all our products with the Verilux Risk Free Guarantee . If you don't absolutely love your new lamp - we'll refund the total cost of your purchase (incuding any tax or shipping) AND we'll also pay for the return shipping to us. We only ask that you return it undamaged in it's original box within 30 days of purchase.

Sunrise Simulation - waking to sunlight

No discussion of light therapy is complete without a thorough analysis of the sleep/wake cycle, and our natural circadian rhythms. Verilux designed and developed the Rise and Shine Natural Alarm Clock to assist in the gentle waking from sleep that occurs with the natural light of sunrise. Using Verilux full spectrum light technology and a patented gradual wake timer, the Rise and Shine slowly bathes you in an increasing level of sunlight. Our customers tell us it is a far better way to greet the day than with traditional alarm clocks.

For more information regarding sleep/wake cycles, circadian rhythms and detailed results of clinical studies on sleep and sleep disorders, please see our discussion of sleeping and waking aids.

Blue light for sleep

Building on NASA research into a drug free solution for astronaut's sleep requirements during space travel, Verilux introduced the TwiLight™ Blue Light Therapy Sleep System. According to NASA, the 30 minute application of a specific wavelength of blue light (460nm) enables the body to "switch on" the natural production of melatonin, resetting the circadian rhythm and setting the body up for a restful sleep. This article from the Harvard University Gazette titled "Blue light resets body rhythms for sounder sleep, higher alertness" states:

"Blue light outshone white in a Harvard University experiment to find better ways to reset our body clocks."

Blue and Red Light Therapy for Skin Care

Verilux is perhaps best known for it's full spectrum lighting products; they have been our staple for more than 50 years. But, over the past few years, we have spent an increasing portion of our research and development budget on the application of "narrow spectrum" light therapy lamps. Our research into blue and red light therapy for skincare resulted in the introduction of the Verilux ClearWave Light Therapy device. Independent studies confirm what our customers have been telling us for the past two years - ClearWave works.

New Light Therapy Products

Verilux is now in the final stages of development of a number of revolutionary applications of light therapy.

Further information

Wikipedia has a good explanation of light therapy and its effects on common ailments.