During the day, computer screens are designed to mimic the sun’s natural light, which is pleasing to the eye. However, at night, staring at a screen that resembles the sun can be harsh on your eyes.
Enter f.lux – a software solution that addresses this issue by adjusting the color temperature of your monitor lighting based on the time of day. It transitions to warmer tones at night, akin to indoor lighting, and mimics sunlight during the day.
Using f.lux not only enhances the visual comfort of your screen but can also potentially improve your sleep quality by reducing exposure to blue light that can disrupt your circadian rhythm. By simply inputting your monitor lighting conditions and location, f.lux automatically adjusts your screen’s color temperature to match the ambient lighting, creating a more natural and comfortable viewing experience.
So, whether you’re looking to protect your eyes, improve your sleep, or just enhance the aesthetics of your computer display, f.lux offers a simple and effective solution that adapts to your daily routine without any hassle.
Get Circadian lighting with f.lux®
Blue Light Exposure and Its Impact on Sleep
In recent years, research has revealed that exposure to blue light, particularly at night, can significantly impact alertness and disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythms.
The Discovery of Melanopsin
A major breakthrough in understanding this phenomenon occurred in 1998 with the discovery of a new photopigment in the eye called Melanopsin. While the well-known rods and cones are responsible for our visual perception, the retinal ganglion cells containing melanopsin are sensitive to a broad range of “blue-green” frequencies around 480nm.
The Circadian System’s Response to Light
Interestingly, a wide variety of light frequencies can stimulate the human circadian system. When referring to “blue light,” it encompasses not only the blue spectrum but also includes lights that appear green, cyan, and even orange. This broad sensitivity allows various light sources to potentially disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
The Importance of Minimizing Blue Light Exposure at Night
Given the significant impact of blue light on alertness and circadian timing, it is crucial to minimize exposure to such light sources, particularly in the evening hours. This can be achieved by using f.lux or similar software to adjust the color temperature of computer displays, as well as by avoiding prolonged use of electronic devices before bedtime.
By understanding the science behind blue light’s effects on sleep and taking proactive measures to reduce exposure, individuals can optimize their sleep quality and overall health.
Read more
Low-energy light bulbs, computers, tablets and the blue light hazard
WHAT IS COLOR? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2831986/pdf/ehp-118-a22.pdf