A vitamin D lamp is a device that emits light that is similar to sunlight. The sun's rays can promote the production of vitamin D in the body, so these lamps are used by consumers to raise their vitamin D levels. These lamps can be a great option for those who aren't able to sit outside during the day, have trouble ingesting vitamin D supplements or live in areas where sunlight is limited by cloud cover or fewer daylight hours.
Traditionally, sunlight has been thought to be one of the best natural sources of vitamin D. Many people, however, find it difficult to get enough sunlight exposure because of lifestyle and work habits or even geographic location. An intolerance to vitamin D supplements can also send people to look for a new way to increase their vitamin D levels. For many of these people, a vitamin D lamp is the answer. It's a small, metal device that appears similar to a heater but emits ultraviolet (UV) light that can increase vitamin D production in the skin.
One advantage of investing in a vitamin D lamp is that it can be used within the comfort of a consumer's home. Using the lamp also affords a consumer a certain amount of privacy. For example, doctors might suggest that patients go outside and expose as much of their skin as they can while under the sun's rays. By using a vitamin D lamp indoors, a person can disrobe as much as he or she pleases without having to worry about privacy issues.
Vitamin D lamps can come equipped with timers to ensure that a person gets enough light treatment to see results. A popular increment of time with these devices is 15 minutes, and consumers are likely to come across lamps that allow them to set exposure for this amount of time. When the timer is set, a lamp can automatically turn off after the specified amount of time has elapsed.
Although vitamin D lamps can closely mimic the sun's rays, using a vitamin D lamp does not result in tanning. Vitamin D lamps can come in a variety of designs, including table-top and floor-stand varieties. Protective eye wear can also come included with the lamp. Consumers who use vitamin D lamps might see improvement in the health of their bones, heart and mental state. Usage of the lamp can make skin disorders more manageable and decrease the risk of cancer and autoimmune disorders.