What does 10,000 lux mean?

There’s an age-old proverb some of you may have heard:

10,000 lux a day keeps the doctor away.

Maybe you haven’t heard that, and that’s okay! Because there’s one thing most people who are new to light therapy are wondering: what does 10,000 lux actually mean?

Let’s put 10,000 lux into perspective.

Light therapy uses lux as a measurement of light intensity. If a person were to sit indoors all day, they would very rarely, if ever, receive any therapeutic benefits from their lighting. It would be possible for a person to receive therapeutic light on a cloudy day if they were to spend hours outside at a time every day.

10,000 lux is the standard “dose” to receive therapeutic benefits.

Studies show that 30 minutes of 10,000 lux light daily is the most efficient way to receive the therapeutic benefits of elevated serotonin and balanced melatonin.

All of Alaska Northern Lights’ light boxes are 10,000 lux.

If the sun is 50,000 lux, why would anyone use a light box?

There are lots of reasons people choose to use light boxes. These are just a few:

  1. They work indoors.

If someone works inside all day, chances are they’re getting less than 400 lux from their artificial lighting. Keeping a light box on their desk is a great way to ensure they get therapeutic light every day.

  1. They work nights.

People who work nights rarely to get to spend time in the sun. Spending time in front of a light box can help regulate their circadian rhythm  and combat depression.

  1. There are no harmful emissions.

The sun can emit harmful UV rays that can damage the skin and eyes. Alaska Northern Lights devices use broad spectrum  lighting which has no negative side effects.

  1. It’s the winter!

Wintertime means shorter days and less sun. In places with harsh weather, it’s especially hard to get at least 10,000 lux outdoors.

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