full spectrum lamps

[Atrsy]

I have a full spectrum lamp that I basically spend about 3/4 my day at. I am an artist and also do alot of needlework and this lamp gives me the best light for my work.

I am wondering if the full spectrum light has any UV rays with it that could be harmful to my health. The reason I ask is that it seems like in the past 2 years, I have aged more than I should have and sometimes my face almost feels sunburned when I sit under that lamp.

Does anyone know if these lamps are dangerous?

[Hutchinson]

I have a full spectrum lamp that I basically spend about 3/4 my day at. I am an artist and also do alot of needlework and this lamp gives me the best light for my work.

I am wondering if the full spectrum light has any UV rays with it that could be harmful to my health. The reason I ask is that it seems like in the past 2 years, I have aged more than I should have and sometimes my face almost feels sunburned when I sit under that lamp.

Does anyone know if these lamps are dangerous?I can't be sure but it is generally the case that FULL SPECTRUM lights generally refer to the visible light spectrum, so those lights produce the same colour spectrum as daylight. They do not usually have any UVB content so you cannot improve your vitamin D status from them, they do not either have UVA so you won't get suntanned from them either. Most people find them easier/less stressful to work under especially for art work or needlework.

More information about light spectrum here. (http://www.uvguide.co.uk/whatisuv.htm)

It would be helpful if you could look at the bulb you are using as a light source, tell us what it is, and then perhaps we could then find out if that particular make of bulb does indeed produce some UV output. While it is generally the case the lights sold as "full spectrum" don't produce UV there could possibly be exceptions or perhaps you have bought something like this in error (http://www.lightbulbs-direct.com/product/2136/ultra-vitalux-300w-uv-reflector/) though I think the heat output alone would prevent it being used for close work.

[Atrsy]

Thank you, That makes me feel better. I don't think I have a light that produces alot of heat, but it is warm like a regular lightbulb rather than cool like a flourescent bulb. It looks more like a flourescent bulb, though.

Now that that is answered, do you know any dangers from using an infra red light? I have one that my mother-in-law used for sore muscles. I was wondering if the deep heat could tighten tissue like the heat producing equipment that is used to preform non-invasive face lifts. I think that it is radio waves that are used for that facial.

I guess I just sit here and think too much. I always wonder about some things and usually never ask because most people would just think I was crazy!