Ask the doctor: Can a light box for SAD damage my eyes?
To help protect your eyes, do not stare at the light source during your treatments. Use fluorescent light rather than incandescent, because the former disperses light more broadly than a smaller focused incandescent source. Use a fixture with light dispersion or screens that filter ultraviolet rays to help protect your eyes. Although light boxes can cost between $200 and $500, and insurance may not always pay for them, it is best to buy a commercially available one rather than build one yourself.
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