The Hidden Impact of Modern Lighting on Your Eyes (and How to Fix It)

  • An interesting study has landed, and it sheds new light, quite literally, on how different wavelengths affect our cellular energy on a surprisingly deep level.

    Photobiomodulation expert Michael R. Hamblin recently highlighted research exploring how both short and long wavelengths interact with the retinas and the brain. The study was done on mice, but the findings are eye-opening for us too.

Short vs. Long Wavelengths- What Are We Talking About?

Light exists on a spectrum. When we think of sunlight, we think of the “full spectrum,” every wavelength working together. If you imagine a rainbow, the warmer tones- red, orange, and yellow- sit on the long-wavelength side. This includes infrared, which we can’t see but plays a huge role in cellular energy.

On the other end, we have blue, green, and purple, including UV. These are short wavelengths.

The Study

Researchers exposed mice to short-wavelength artificial light (basically, the type of white lighting found in most homes and office spaces). What they found was startling: the mitochondria in both the retinas and the brain began to slow down… rapidly.

In fact, the energy production inside these cells declined so quickly that it triggered accelerated cell death. The rate of which, really is quite alarming. Mitochondria is essential for our cellular health, cellular health is fundamental when we are talking about overall health and longevity. Which is why we believe this study needs to be talked about more.

What This Means for Us
Even though the experiment was done on mice, the biology is similar enough to take seriously. The idea that everyday lighting can impact our cellular energy, and even contribute to cell death, raises some important questions about how much short-wavelength exposure we get day to day.

  • Why Red Light Therapy Helps

    This is where Red Light Therapy becomes so valuable. Long wavelengths, like Red and Near-Infrared, have been shown to support mitochondrial function rather than disrupt it. They help the cell produce energy more efficiently and reduce the risk of unnecessary cell death.

    Ending your day with a little Red Light Therapy is a lovely way to counteract the stress modern lighting places on your eyes and brain.

  • Using Red Light Therapy on the Eyes

    It’s completely understandable that people feel hesitant about shining light near their eyes. We’re all brought up being told not to stare at bright lights.

    But Red Light Therapy is different.

    We’ve seen some incredible responses- especially in degenerative conditions like macular degeneration, when used consistently. The safest approach is simple: gently close your eyes and apply the light over the eyelids. One or two gentle doses over each eye before bed may make a meaningful difference.

  • Other Ways to Support Eye Health

    Your eyes crave natural light. Full-spectrum sunlight helps with everything from brain function to vitamin D and serotonin levels. Getting outside in the morning, even briefly, feeds your system with the kind of light it’s built for.

    In the evenings, try swapping harsh white lights for warm, soft lighting. Amber lamps, blue-light-blocking glasses, or low-blue bulbs can make a huge difference, especially if you regularly use screens at night.

    And of course… Finish Every Day With Photizo.

    A simple minute or two over your closed eyelids may help soothe your system and support better sleep. It’s a gentle ritual that your body and mind will thank you for.
Read the study here