What are the most problematic light sources?
It is hard to say that one light source is better or worse than another. The experiences and triggers often vary from one person to the next, and for somebody who is already sensitive to light, they may find that all sources are disruptive!
That said, certain lighting has unique properties, which can lead to different effects. Artificial lights and digital screens have high concentrations of uncomfortable blue light that can cause a number of responses to those who experience issues related to light.1
Fluorescents have similarly high levels of irritating blue light and typically have an invisible flicker that can trigger or worsen symptoms for light-sensitive individuals too.2 LEDs and fluorescents are the backlight of most digital screens–from phones, to TVs, to computers!
Even flashing or strobing lights, as well as repeating patterns, can aggravate a sensitive brain.3
As a result, it is important for you to manage the problematic light to which you are exposed. We designed specialized TheraSpecs lenses to target and filter out the most troubling wavelengths across the entire visible light spectrum, so you can make sure you get the protection you need for artificial lighting.
If sunlight is just as uncomfortable, then we recommend trying a polarized pair of TheraSpecs FL-Sun™ Dark+ or Ultradark+, filtering the troubling wavelengths and cutting back on glare.
Get help choosing the right lens for you with our lens assistant.
2Wilkins AJ, Nimmo-Smith I, Slater AI, Bedocs L. "Fluorescent lighting, headaches and eyestrain." Lighting Research and Technology 1989 March;21(3) 1 11-18
3Hermes D, Kasteleijn-Nolst Trenite D.G.A, Winawer J. Gamma oscillations and photosensitive epilepsy. Current Biology. 2017; 27(9); doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2017.03.076