What is your opinion of full spectrum natural sunlight bulbs?

Question

I understand they are suppose to be effective for S.A.D. Without a doubt they are brighter than regular bulbs. I know they use less energy. However I have heard they produce a harmful Ion.

Answer 1

They are quite nice. I found it helped me in the winter to sit under it for about 15-20 mins daily.

I also found it more pleasant to read by. Just a slight difference in how the pages look.

Answer 2

"Full spectrum" bulbs mimic sunlight.  They're mostly good for plants.  The don't produce ions, but they do produce ultraviolet light (UV), which can be harmful, particularly to your eyes.

SAD patients use unusually high intensity light, and that intensity with UV is a very bad combination.  Bulbs for SAD are NOT full spectrum, they are specifically designed to emit very low levels of UV.

Do not expose yourself to large amounts of "full spectrum" light.

Do NOT try to treat yourself for SAD.  The light intensity involved can be dangerous.  Work with a doctor who can help you do it correctly.  Your eyesight is at stake.