Brighten up the winter blues with Omnilux Light Therapy

For some, winter is a time of year to look forward to – snowboarding, long walks down the beach and crisp cold mornings. For others, it can be a very difficult and depressing time - these people could be suffering the effects of a debilitating mood disorder called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or a milder form known as the “winter blues”.

SAD is a medical condition that can seriously affect how people feel. Experts believe that reduced exposure to light as the days get shorter and more dull results in a reduced production of serotonin – the happy hormone – by the hypothalamus, the part of the brain which regulates mood, appetite and sleep.

Founder of The Face Place MedSpa, Dr Catherine Stone, says: “Those suffering from SAD can experience a range of symptoms, including: difficulty waking up in the morning; cravings for foods high in carbohydrates; weight gain; loss of energy; anxiety; depression; difficulty concentrating and social withdrawal.”

For many, SAD and the winter blues can be easily treated by regular light therapy sessions.  Light therapy has been found to be as effective as antidepressant medication for seasonal mood disorders, and has much fewer side effects. While bright white light has traditionally been used, more targeted LED light therapy has been shown to be as effective, with a reduced risk of skin damage from UV exposure.

“We have often had clients comment that they feel more relaxed and ‘happier’ after their Omnilux light treatments” Catherine comments, “We know that the bright red light produced with Omnilux Revive™ has positive effects beyond giving healthy, glowing skin - it is also helpful for wound healing, mood boosting, and stimulating hair growth. Recent research has shown that the low level blue LED light that we use as a tool in treating acne, is even more effective at treating seasonal mood disorders. It’s wonderful to know that our treatments for skin also have a positive effect on our clients’ happiness”

“Like all treatments available at The Face Place, we offer simple and natural solutions to help people feel good.  Light therapy is safe, effective, medically proven and it helps people feel more like their usual selves.”

“We recommend anyone who things they might be suffering from SAD or depression to speak with their GP, as there may be other causes or alternative treatments.”

To book a light therapy treatment, visit www.thefaceplace.co.nz.