What are the Different Types of Light Therapy Products?

Light has long been a trusted component in both traditional and alternative healing. Some seek light therapy products to deal with the challenges of Season Affective Disorder (SAD), while others simply seek a safe, relaxing source of stress relief. Light boxes, sunrise simulator alarm clocks, skin lights, visors, and salt lamps are just a sampling of the light therapy products on the market today.

One of the most popular light therapy products is a light box. Light boxes are available in several sizes, from small desktop styles to large, freestanding floor models. Smaller-sized boxes typically have just one light setting, but the bigger and more expensive the light therapy lamp, the more settings the unit usually has. Many light boxes are adjustable, allowing the freedom to aim the beneficial light in any direction.

Specially-designed sunrise simulator alarm clocks are another widely-utilized light therapy product. While most models otherwise operate in the same fashion as a traditional alarm clock, light therapy clocks have the added benefit of sunrise simulation. A bulb on top of the unit mimics the gradual lightening of the rising sun, which wakes the body slowly and naturally. Instead of waking to a jarring alarm, a sleeper is able to progressively respond to the light until he or she is fully alert. Many people report feeling more rested while using this therapy.

The skin can also benefit from the effects of light therapy products. Several manufacturers make light therapy boxes specifically designed to heal aging or damaged skin. Sitting in front of these boxes for several minutes on a regular basis can nourish and rejuvenate the skin with healing light. Users report decreases in wrinkles, acne, and crow's feet as well as speed in healing wounds.

Many travelers get bogged down by jet lag, but there are light therapy products available to combat this common condition as well. With a light visor, the ill effects of jet lag can be reduced, or in some cases, banished completely. The body's internal clock responds to the visor light and normalizes more quickly to the new time zone. By giving a boost of much-needed energy, these visors can also be used by those who suffer from SAD, offering a portable alternative to the often bulky light boxes or SAD lamps.

People often report feelings of well-being after a stroll on the beach or a hike in the mountains. These places are filled with invisible molecules called negative ions, which are typically credited for this feeling of well-being. Light therapy products called salt lamps reproduce these same negative ions in the home. Salt lamps are large salt-rock deposits hollowed out and fitted with a small light bulb. When plugged in and switched on, salt lamps release the salt's negative ions into the air while creating a warm, soothing glow.