A Path to Better Sleep and Circadian Health: Optimizing and Personalizing Indoor Lighting

Abstract

Circadian rhythms play a crucial role in the regulation of sleep, metabolism, and cognitive function. However, they are highly sensitive to disturbances caused by irregular indoor lighting, especially exposure to blue light at night. This review explored the impact of indoor lighting on circadian and sleep health by analyzing trends in light exposure, socioeconomic disparities, and the prioritization of economic efficiency over health in modern lighting design. Significant variations in individual circadian rhythms present a challenge in creating standardized lighting environments. To address this issue, a review suggested the development of personalized lighting systems that use advanced sensors to monitor and respond to the circadian phase of each individual. By dynamically adjusting light intensity, wavelength, and timing, these systems can better align with personal biological clocks, promote optimal sleep and overall health, and advance the concept of truly human-centric lighting environments.