If you're reading this, you're already aware of the numerous advantages associated with using full spectrum light bulbs. But what exactly are these benefits, and how do they impact our daily lives? Beyond simply providing illumination, full spectrum light bulbs offer a range of benefits that can positively influence our well-being, energy levels, health, and even our perception of color. Let's delve deeper into full spectrum lighting to understand its potential impact on our lives.

What is Full Spectrum Light?

Full spectrum light bulbs are designed to mimic the natural light spectrum. Unlike traditional bulbs that emit a narrow and truncated light spectrum, full spectrum bulbs emit light across the entire visible spectrum.  

While full spectrum light bulbs are typically defined as having a color temperature between 5000K and 6500K and a CRI above 96, you'll quickly realize that a full spectrum light bulb is effectively a daylight white bulb with a very white, almost bluish cast. Great for alertness during the day, horrible if you're sensitive to blue light or to use in the evening. 

For this reason, it's better to define full spectrum light as any light source that emits light across the entire visible spectrum. 

Benefits of Full Spectrum Light Bulbs

Enhanced Well-being

Full spectrum light bulbs have been shown to positively influence mood and overall well-being. By closely mimicking natural sunlight, they can help regulate circadian rhythms and combat feelings of lethargy or low mood.

More Energy

Exposure to full spectrum light has been linked to increased energy levels, particularly during the daytime. These bulbs can help alleviate fatigue and promote alertness, making them ideal for workplaces or areas where productivity is crucial.

Enhanced Colors

One of the distinctive features of full spectrum light is its ability to render colors more accurately and vividly. This can improve the visual appeal of indoor spaces and contribute to a more vibrant environment. 

Using Full Spectrum Light for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, usually during the winter months when daylight hours are shorter. Full spectrum light therapy is a popular treatment for SAD, as it helps offset the effects of reduced sunlight exposure by providing a source of light that closely resembles natural sunlight.

While definitely helpful, full spectrum light bulbs on their own don't necessarily serve as the most effective light therapy - you'll want a dedicated full spectrum light box (intended specifically for SAD). Light bulbs on their own won't produce bright enough a light. 

That said, for those individuals with eye sensitivities or who cannot tolerate the brightness of traditional SAD light therapy lamps, a colorful full spectrum light bulb such as Chromalux® is a wonderful addition and can work wonders for boosting mood and reducing lethargy. You'll want a higher wattage bulb (100W or higher)  

Best Full Spectrum Light Bulbs

You'll want a brighter, whiter one during the day for enhanced energy and mood (and to reset your circadian rhythm!), but a warmer color full spectrum bulb in the evening to minimize blue light and get a better night's sleep. 

Best full spectrum light bulb for daytime usage

A21 / 100W Chromalux® Full Spectrum Classic Bulb in Clear Glass

A19 / 53W Chromalux® Enhanced™ Full Spectrum Bulb

A21 72W Chromalux® Enhanced™ Full Spectrum Bulb

Best full spectrum light bulb for nighttime usage

Chromalux® 60W frosted bulb

B10 Clear – 25W Medium Base Chromalux® Full Spectrum Bulb

Why Chromalux® is the Best Full Spectrum Light Bulb

Standard daylight full spectrum light bulbs are a different bulb entirely from the Chromalux® line of full spectrum bulbs, which use neodymium glass to filter out yellow and other dulling frequencies of the light spectrum, resulting in a beautifully pure and vivid light with enhanced colors and contrast.

Standard types of full spectrum light bulbs are typically LEDs that emit a full spectrum of daylight white light (between 5000-6500K color temperature). While these bulbs are beneficial in the morning and daytime to help with energy and alertness (thanks to the biologically necessary blue color wavelengths to activate our circadian rhythm), most don't necessarily replicate colors well and can cast a garish appearance to everything. Many people also complain of glare and eye strain.

Our bulbs will appear gentler and soothing in comparison, and colors will also be more vivid and true to life.

Our light technology allows you to see and feel better while enhancing your environment and inspiring you in a way standard full spectrum bulbs cannot!

Ideally, you could both use standard daylight color full spectrum bulbs together with our Chromalux® bulbs for the ultimate lighting environment!