Getting Started FAQs

1. What is the HumanCharger?

The HumanCharger is a wearable bright-light device designed to help support your body's internal clock (also called the circadian rhythm). Unlike traditional light therapy lamps that shine light into your eyes, the HumanCharger delivers safe, full-spectrum, UV-free bright light through the ear canals. Many people use the HumanCharger to support healthy sleep, improve daytime alertness, reduce fatigue, minimize jet lag, and stay energized during the darker months of the year. It's lightweight, portable, and each session takes just 12 minutes. Most people use it while drinking their morning coffee, reading the news, or answering emails, making it easy to build into an existing routine.

2. How does the HumanCharger work?

The human body relies on light more than most people realize. Light is one of the strongest signals controlling your circadian rhythm, which helps regulate sleep, energy, mood, alertness, and many other biological processes. The HumanCharger delivers bright, full-spectrum, UV-free light, transcranially, through the ear canals. Research suggests that specialized light-sensitive pathways beyond the eyes also respond to light, helping support the body's natural circadian rhythms. Think of it this way: Your body evolved to spend hours outdoors in natural daylight. Today, many of us spend most of our day indoors under artificial lighting. The HumanCharger is designed to help restore some of the light signals modern life often takes away.

3. Why does it shine light through the ears?

Researchers in Finland found light-sensitive proteins in areas beyond the eyes and demonstrated that light can penetrate tissue surrounding the ear. Because the eardrum is translucent and the bone structure around the ears is relatively thin, the ear canal provides a practical pathway for delivering transcranial bright light. The HumanCharger uses this pathway to support circadian rhythm, alertness, mood, and overall well-being. The HumanCharger delivers bright, full-spectrum, UV-free light comfortably through the ears. It doesn't heat the ears or affect your hearing. It may seem unusual at first, but after one session most people simply say, "That was easier than I expected."

4. Is the light safe?

Yes. The HumanCharger uses bright, full-spectrum, UV-free LED light. There is no ultraviolet radiation, and the device has been designed specifically for daily use. It has been used by thousands of people around the world over the past decade - including business travelers, professional athletes, shift workers, healthcare professionals, and individuals looking to support their daily energy and sleep routines. If you have a specific medical condition or concerns, it's always a good idea to discuss any wellness device with your healthcare provider.

5. How long is each session?

Each session lasts just 12 minutes, and then automatically shuts off. That's one of the reasons people stick with it. You can use the HumanCharger while drinking your morning coffee, reading the news, answering emails, or planning your day. No special preparation is required.

6. How often should I use it?

For most people, one 12-minute session each morning is ideal. If you're using the HumanCharger for jet lag, shift work, or another specific situation, we recommend following the protocol provided in our Jet Lag or Shift Work Playbooks. Consistency is more important than intensity. A short daily session often produces better results than using it only occasionally. Remember, the human body needs light to function at peak efficiency.

7. When is the best time of day to use it?

Morning is generally the best time. Your body's internal clock (its circadian rhythm) naturally responds to light early in the day, making morning sessions the preferred choice for most users. That said, there are exceptions. Travelers crossing multiple time zones, shift workers, or those following a specific protocol may use the HumanCharger at different times depending on their goals.

8. Can I use it more than once per day?

Absolutely. Many people use the HumanCharger once each morning as part of their daily routine. However, many people use the HumanCharger during an afternoon slump. Most find it better (and less expensive) than a coffee or energy drinks. During periods of travel or shift work, multiple sessions may be recommended. For example, our Jet Lag Protocol often calls for several sessions during the first two days after arriving in a new time zone. Always follow the protocol that best matches your situation.

9. How soon will I notice a difference?

Everyone is different. Some people notice increased alertness or improved energy after their very first session. Others experience more gradual changes over several days or weeks of consistent use. The HumanCharger works best when it's used regularly as part of a healthy daily routine that includes good sleep, physical activity, and proper nutrition.

10. Who should use the HumanCharger?

The HumanCharger is designed for anyone who wants to support healthy circadian rhythms and improve daily energy and performance. Many of our users include: Individuals who suffer from seasonal affective disorder. Frequent travelers. Business executives. Professional and recreational athletes. Shift workers. Airline pilots and cabin crews. Healthcare professionals. Students. Entrepreneurs. Anyone who spends most of the day indoors. People looking for extra support during autumn and winter. If you've ever said, "I'm tired all the time," "I struggle with jet lag," or "I don't get enough daylight," the HumanCharger is a worthwhile investment in your health and wellness.