Alaska Northern Lights™ Northstar - 10,000-25,000 LUX UV Free Premium Light Therapy Lamp, Over 100K Sold, Low Glare, No Flickering, Vertical or Horizontal Orientation - US Based Company

As someone who has struggled with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) for years, I was eager to try light therapy to help manage my symptoms. After doing some research, I came across the NorthStar 10,000 light box, and I’m so glad I did! This product truly lives up to its claims and provides an effective and scientifically backed solution for light therapy.What Makes the NorthStar 10,000 Stand Out?One of the key factors that drew me to the NorthStar 10,000 is that it meets the rigorous standards set in clinical research for treating SAD. According to the Yale School of Medicine's Winter Depression Research Clinic, the most effective light therapy devices deliver 10,000 lux at a reasonable distance (about 24 inches) for 30 minutes each morning. Unlike cheaper, subpar models that advertise 10,000 lux but require you to sit inches away to receive the full intensity, the NorthStar 10,000 delivers on its promise of 10,000 lux at a practical distance.In their 2019 analysis, the Yale clinic found that many light boxes on the market are too dim or too small to be effective. In fact, they tested 24 devices and found that only a few—like the NorthStar 10,000—met the required criteria to provide clinically significant light therapy. They specifically note that a proper light therapy device should produce at least 7,500 lux at a reasonable distance (11 inches or more), and the NorthStar 10,000 comfortably meets these standards. The clinic also highlights that this device produces a full 10,000 lux at 24 inches—exactly as advertised.A Comparison to Cheaper AlternativesBefore purchasing the NorthStar, I bought a much cheaper light box for around $30, hoping it would help alleviate my SAD symptoms. While the cheaper light made my bathroom bright and cheery, it didn't come close to providing effective therapy. According to the manufacturer, it was supposed to deliver 10,000 lux, but I quickly realized that I would have to sit LESS THAN *6 inches away* to get anywhere near that intensity, making it nearly impossible to use for the full recommended 30-minute session. It became clear that the cheaper device was not truly meeting the necessary standards for light therapy.In contrast, the NorthStar 10,000 offers consistent, strong light therapy at a practical and comfortable distance. I can use it at the recommended 24 inches, and I know I’m getting the full 10,000 lux, without the need to sit uncomfortably close. It’s also non-glaring, which was another major concern I had with some other models.Why it Works & Why it's Worth the InvestmentClearly from this review, I care about a product's clinical testing and significance. If you are looking to begin light therapy treatment: do NOT skimp on the light box/lamp you purchase! Research consistently supports the use of **full-size light boxes** like the NorthStar for effective SAD treatment. These devices emit bright white light, similar to natural sunlight, and have been shown to improve mood and energy levels in individuals with SAD. According to the Yale Winter Depression Research Clinic, "30 minutes of exposure to 10,000 lux in the morning is the gold standard" for treating SAD. The NorthStar 10,000 fits perfectly into this regimen, making it easy and convenient to stick to a treatment routine that works.Final ThoughtsIf you're looking for a high-quality, research-backed light therapy box that actually delivers on its promises, I highly recommend the NorthStar 10,000. It’s an investment in your mental health and well-being, especially if you struggle with SAD. It meets all the critical standards set by clinical research and is built to deliver the **clinically significant light intensity** needed to make a difference. Unlike cheaper models that may look bright but fall short in effectiveness, the NorthStar 10,000 is a reliable, proven choice for those serious about managing SAD.Included a photo of the light box with my cat for scale!

Its a bright light. Takes at least 14-21 days to adjust. Overdid it at 1st. Opps didn't sleep at all. Learning curve warning guys. It is going to depend on YOUR personal circadian rhytm. Please research THAT! Example: Hubby is opposite of me, he can only use for 10 minutes at around 3 pm or no sleep. It works for mood very well on me. I had to do a daily recording to find what works for me for about 21 days This is what I ended up with. 1) Am indirect (up at ceiling) 10 minutes, 2) Direct 15 min, then 3) 20-40 in room at ceiling. Believe me, I was skeptical but damn this thing works. I went through no sleep and a headache figuring it out but damn-nation it was and is SOOOO worth it. So so worth it! Side note: Dog hates it, cat loves it - Ha! 1st thing noticed even in trial mode, I was able to move my lay down time by 1 hour the 1st week. We have been trying to get that done since a car accident 2 yrs ago. I would have loved more immediate easy changes but since each body is different- oh wellIt is sturdy. It does heat up a but. It doesn't fit in with my decor anywhere. Cord is strong, stable. Does not knock over easily. Only hard part is getting the specific rhythm right. Great buy, very glad I have it. Use time now at 3 months - happy about the purchase.Update: Jan 30 2024. 3.5 months and I'm completely normal like it is summer - almost - I'm usually outside then!I have been, In the dark, in my house, all month.House does not get ANY sun from Jan to about mid april really. I now Have my rhythms with the light down, and definite affects me and can tell a difference in mood. Have not lost my sense of humor at all this year. Still cracking jokes for once. Sleep is a steady 8 hours for last 2 weeks. Food intake did not go up this year so my weight has not increased so far.Found the right place for it. Family and husband very "use to it" and also sort of look over if it is off because I forget occasionallly. I can tell a difference in the others here, as well. True story: my cows notice it is on and moo hello in the am when I turn it on. Hilarious, mom means food, "she is up" gets trumpeted every damn day. Still get a bit of a H.A. if I look directly at it, (don't by the way) but I was the kid they yelled at to "stop looking", at the sun, as a kid!My circadian cycle is directly opposite of my husbands. Research folks!!!! This does help him get 1 more hour in the day awake with very minimal exposure. I need it way more as I'm the sleepy one that can't sleep or think without a high amount of sunshine. It helps me have a productive day, work out!!!, stop comfort eating and lay down and actually SLEEP. We are all thrilled!The product: It is still super bright! Still very happy with this thing. All of it. Cord, switch, lights still working.No loose fittings. Was worried as we moved it a lot and do change its position to shining upwards on really dark days. The moving has not loosened anything that we can tell.For the benefit the cost has been negligible. I went through several cheap-type ones with them at my face which all broke, bluew breakers etc. THIS HAS BEEN MY LIFE SAVER. Really wish I had spent the darn money years ago! It's on, I'm up and busy. Priceless.

The Northstar 10,000 delivers 10,000 lux of light intensity, which is the optimal strength recommended for light therapy. It's designed to mimic natural sunlight, which is key for alleviating symptoms of SAD. The brightness is adjustable, so you can find the perfect level that works for you without being overwhelming. The cool white light is bright but doesn’t flicker, which makes it easy to use for extended periods of time.One of my favorite features is the UV protection. I’ve always been cautious about UV exposure, and this lamp provides the benefits of light therapy without the harmful UV rays, which gives me peace of mind while using it daily.The Alaska Northern Lights Northstar 10,000 has truly been transformative for me in managing both SAD and insomnia. The combination of its effective light therapy, thoughtful design, and ease of use has made it an essential part of my daily routine. I feel more energized, less depressed, and have experienced better sleep quality since I started using it. If you're struggling with SAD, insomnia, or both, I highly recommend giving this light therapy lamp a try – it’s worth every penny.