Who Needs Bright Light and When? Mapping the Interactions of Lighting Environments and Individual Differences in Circadian Light Sensitivity

Brighter evening light led to later predicted circadian and sleep timing.

• Individual differences in light sensitivity significantly influence sleep and circadian timing.
• High light sensitivity amplifies the effects of brighter evening light, resulting in later sleep onset.
• Reducing evening light exposure is particularly advantageous for those with high light sensitivity or longer circadian periods.
• Brighter morning light can promote better outcomes for individuals with longer circadian periods or high evening light exposure.
• Bright morning light may be counterproductive for those with shorter circadian periods or lower light sensitivity.
• Increasing daytime light exposure can mitigate the negative effects of evening artificial light across various conditions.

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