The lights used for illumination are distinguished by the color of the light that our eyes see in the wave range from orange to blue. A conventional division of visible light into warm, neutral and cool is used.
When choosing lights, it is important to remember that each type of light has a different effect on the human body and, accordingly, is recommended only for certain types of rooms.
In addition, different shades of white light are combined only with certain interior colors and certain design styles. In this article we will talk in detail about all the features mentioned.
The Temperature of Light in Our Lives
Shades of white light are not only subjectively perceived differently, but also objectively have different physiological effects. Do not be surprised by the appearance of headaches and rapid eye fatigue during a long stay in a room with a certain variant of light. The reasons for such a reaction of the body have long been studied. That’s why doctors advise avoiding watching TV or social networking via cell phone before going to bed.
Read Also: What Color Light is Good for Headaches
Let’s See How Different Shades of Light Affect People
- Warm (2700-3100K, cozy yellowish glow)
Acts soothing, promotes proper rest and creates the most comfortable atmosphere. Reduced contrast and sharpness of the display of the environment reduce the burden on the eyesight. Emotional background and mood are at a maximum of positive sector. The body goes into a relaxed mode, providing a quick falling asleep and a restful sleep.
- Neutral (4000-4200K, closest to pure white)
It has a stimulating effect on the nervous system and brain, which improves performance and concentration. Provides interior contrast and color rendering closest to natural sunlight. Does not tire the eyes, allowing you to engage in any activity. It should be noted that the activation of body functions cannot last too long. Therefore, the recommended amount of time spent in neutral light is limited to 8-10 hours.
- Cold (5000-6200K, has a distinct bluish hue)
Causes discomfort along with short term excitement that turns into a depressed psycho-emotional state. Eyes fatigue after 30-60 minutes due to the increased contrast and harshness of the environment. The unnaturalness of the light flux negatively affects the general condition, causing a headache attack, a sharp decrease in tone and mood deterioration. The color palette of objects is perceived dimly and inexpressively.
The Physical Effects of Different Types of Light on People are Still Poorly Understood
Choose a softer, warmer light with a lower color temperature, and you will fall asleep like a baby in a minimum amount of time.
- Cold light bulbs give off maximum radiation in the blue part of the optical range, activating the production of serotonin. This substance activates the body, but its overabundance causes depression and migraine, and also increases allergic reactions;
- Warm light sources have the highest intensity in the yellow-orange spectrum and initiate the synthesis of melatonin. This hormone promotes relaxation, normalizes biorhythms, and normalizes blood pressure. It is noted its positive effect on the immune system, the brain and the digestive system. Interestingly, after a flight with a change of time zone there is a better adaptation to warm artificial light.
Read also: Is Reading in Dim Light Bad for Your Eyes?