Anyone Used Artificial Sunlamps?

Has anyone had positive results using a sunlamp in the winter months? If so, which is a good one that you'd recommend? I'm interested in using one for improved sleep and to minimize SAD.

What about cancer?

http://tanningbeds.mercola.com/default.aspx

The Full-Spectrum Light bulbs from Mercola are pretty good. I bought the highest wattage ones and they sit in the light above my computer area where I sit a lot. You can also try placing one in a desk lamp and shine it on your face for about 30 minutes a day.

Sometime ago I looked into UVB lamps and found some pretty interesting options. I kind of want to do some experiments with them this winter. Vitamin D synthesized from UVB can't be beat.

hapyman, aren't you worried about the UV damaging your skin? I know UVA seems to be more of a culprit than UVB but why not use the sunlamp on other parts of your body and avoid the risk?

I bought this online last week:

http://www.verilux.com/light-therapy-lamps/happylight-light-therapy


I use a standard full spectrum bulb in the kitchen. They're okay, but might not be adequate. I think you need to get the 10,000 lux of full spectrum bulbs.

sdguy wrote:hapyman, aren't you worried about the UV damaging your skin? I know UVA seems to be more of a culprit than UVB but why not use the sunlamp on other parts of your body and avoid the risk?

I haven't used the sunlamp yet but it is something I am looking at. The problem as you've alluded to is that we are being exposed to too much UVA. UVA penetrates windows, cars and even some walls. UVB is stopped dead by just windows alone. So while you are sitting in front of that nice window by your desk or driving in your car you are getting blasted with UVA and no UVB. UVB is the most important one. Also the damage done by UV rays have been shown to be neutralized by diets rich in anti-oxidants. I forget the doctors name but I read an interesting write up that basically linked skin cancer to your diet. The premise was that the UV rays were interacting (transforming) the unhealthy things in your diet into more harmful carcinogens.

To back up this idea I have noticed while fully loaded on IH's regiment and also supplementing with extra astaxanthin I am less prone to getting sunburn. Even when out for 4 hours with no sunscreen on during peak hours.