The Hidden Cost of Modern Living
How Red Light Therapy Helps Undo the Effects of Indoor Life, Screen Time, and Low Sunlight
In the UK and many northern countries, consistent and healthy sunlight exposure is difficult to come by. Even in summer, many people struggle to get enough daily light. Between long working hours, busy routines, and unpredictable weather, it’s easy to go days with minimal sunlight on your skin.
But light is not just about brightness. It’s biological. It affects your sleep, mood, energy, hormones, and even your skin health.
The Reality of Modern Indoor Life
Most of us now spend the majority of our lives indoors. According to a UK government study, the average person spends over 90% of their time inside — in offices, gyms, homes, cars, or commuting on public transport. Add to that the hours we spend looking at screens, and our exposure to natural light is drastically reduced.
This isn’t about blaming anyone — it’s modern life.
But it does come with a cost.
Light Deficiency and Mental Health
Consistently low light exposure is linked to a number of health challenges, especially around mood and mental well-being.
A large-scale study published in The Lancet Psychiatry (2018) found that people with disrupted exposure to natural daylight and artificial light, such as low daytime exposure and high exposure at night, had significantly higher rates of depression, anxiety, and mood instability.
Lack of sunlight, especially in northern climates, has also been associated with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and low energy levels, even outside of winter.
You don’t have to feel deeply depressed to be affected. Many people living in low-light environments report:
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Waking up tired despite a full night’s sleep
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Feeling mentally foggy or unmotivated
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Afternoon energy crashes
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Trouble winding down at night
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A general sense of feeling “flat” or disconnected
These are signs that your body may be starved of healthy light — and that your circadian rhythm is out of sync.
But What About Summer?
While summer brings longer days, it doesn’t guarantee regular light exposure. In the UK, it’s not uncommon to go days or even weeks without clear skies, and many people still spend most of the daylight hours indoors.
Even in June or July, it’s possible to experience the effects of light deficiency if you:
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Work inside during daylight hours
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Commute before sunrise or after sunset
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Live in urban areas with little access to outdoor space.
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Wear sunscreen or sunglasses constantly (blocking light absorption)
That’s why red light therapy isn’t just a winter solution — it’s a year-round tool to help your body get the wavelengths of light it needs to function optimally.
How Red Light Therapy Helps
Red light therapy (RLT) uses specific wavelengths of light — typically 660nm (red) and 850nm (near-infrared) — to mimic some of the benefits of natural sunlight, without UV damage.
These wavelengths have been shown to:
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Support mitochondrial function and increase energy production (ATP)
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Regulate melatonin and support better sleep cycles.
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Reduce inflammation and promote cellular repair.
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Improve skin health, tone, and circulation.
A 2009 study published in Psychiatry Research found that near-infrared light therapy applied to the forehead produced antidepressant effects in individuals with seasonal depression. Other emerging research supports its role in enhancing mood, focus, and overall well-being, particularly in individuals with limited exposure to sunlight.
How It Feels to Use Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy is more than a treatment — it’s a routine. A moment of calm, warmth, and restoration in your day.
With regular use, people often report:
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Waking up more alert and energised
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Falling asleep faster and sleeping deeper
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Feeling less anxious or reactive
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A noticeable lift in mood
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Clearer, more radiant skin
It’s like giving your body the light it's missing — and watching things start to work properly again.
In Summary
Even in summer, most people in the UK don’t get enough consistent, natural light to support their health. And with modern life keeping us indoors and in front of screens, the problem is year-round.
Red light therapy offers a powerful, science-backed way to supplement the light your body needs, helping to reset your rhythm, boost your mood, and improve your overall well-being.
It’s one of the simplest ways to take control of how you feel — no matter the weather outside.
Want to experience it for yourself?
Explore our red light therapy products here.
Or reach out with any questions — we’re always happy to help.