For decades, incandescent light bulbs were the gold standard for home and workplace lighting. Then, in a push for energy efficiency, they were phased out in favor of LEDs and fluorescent bulbs. But what if the tradeoff for energy savings came at the cost of our health? A growing body of research—and public sentiment—suggests exactly that. Now, incandescent bulbs are set to make a return, and it’s more than just a matter of nostalgia—it’s a victory for human biology, circadian health, and freedom of choice.
A Win for Market Competition—and Your Health
The government is finally reversing the ban on incandescent bulbs, citing the need to “promote market competition and innovation.” While that phrase may sound like generic political jargon, it’s a significant win for those who value the right to choose what goes into their homes. Incandescent bulbs offer a more biologically friendly light spectrum, which is far superior to the harsh, unnatural glow of LEDs and fluorescents. Their return means more options for consumers who prioritize health over strict energy efficiency metrics.
Fighting for the Freedom to Choose
Politicians like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have been vocal about the need to protect Americans’ freedom to choose their own appliances—including light bulbs, dishwashers, and stoves—without government overreach. The pushback against LED mandates isn’t just about convenience; it’s about protecting personal sovereignty in making health-conscious decisions. When it comes to lighting, the science is clear: not all bulbs are created equal.
The Science of Light and Sleep: LED vs. Incandescent
A striking graph comparing light sources and melatonin suppression tells an alarming story: LED and fluorescent bulbs suppress melatonin production by up to 80%, dramatically affecting sleep quality. Blue light exposure after sunset disrupts our natural circadian rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up feeling rested. By contrast, incandescent bulbs emit a warmer, redder spectrum, which supports melatonin production rather than hindering it.
How LEDs Wreck Your Sleep
Studies show that white LED lamps impact circadian sleep rhythms five times more than conventional lighting. This means that the average person exposed to LED lighting at night is essentially experiencing artificial jet lag every single evening. If you’ve ever felt wired but exhausted before bed, yet struggled to get restful sleep, your lighting choices could be to blame.
The Cold, Soulless Glow of Modern Cities
A side-by-side comparison of New York City before and after the widespread adoption of LED street lighting paints a bleak picture. Where warm incandescent streetlights once gave the city a cozy, inviting glow, today’s LED-lit streets look sterile and unwelcoming. Beyond aesthetics, the stark blue-white glow contributes to light pollution, disrupting sleep for residents and making nighttime environments feel harsh and artificial.
The Hidden Dangers of LEDs for Driving
LEDs don’t just impact sleep—they also pose significant risks for drivers. The intense blue light strains the eyes accelerates retinal degeneration and disrupts hormones responsible for alertness and relaxation. Studies also suggest that prolonged exposure to LED streetlights can lead to lower attention spans, cognitive fatigue, and even mitochondrial dysfunction—factors that can increase the risk of accidents and long-term health issues.
The Bottom Line: Incandescent Bulbs Just Make Sense
The return of incandescent bulbs isn’t just about aesthetics or nostalgia—it’s about reclaiming a healthier way of living. Their natural, warm glow aligns with our biology, supporting better sleep, balanced hormones, and overall well-being. While LEDs may continue to dominate for now, the resurgence of incandescent lighting offers a compelling reminder that sometimes, the old ways are still the best ways.
When it comes to lighting, choose wisely—because the flick of a switch can impact far more than just your electric bill.
Citations:
- Holland, Christine. "Are LEDs the Next CFL: A Diffusion of Innovation Analysis." Proceedings of the 2014 ACEEE Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, 2014. aceee.org
- "Philips Lighting North America Wins Department of Energy's L Prize." Department of Energy, 2011. legacy.geog.ucsb.edu+1dataintelo.com+1
- "Eye Disease Resulting from Increased Use of Fluorescent Lighting: A Hypothetical Analysis." Environmental Health Perspectives, vol. 119, no. 4, 2011, pp. 500-507. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- "Increase in LED Lighting 'Risks Harming Human and Animal Health'." The Guardian, 14 Sept. 2022. theguardian.com
- "The History of the Light Bulb." Department of Energy, 2013. energy.gov+1theverge.com+1
- "Is LED Light Harmful to Your Health?" Pacific Energy Concepts, 2021. handymattaustin.com+3pecnw.com+3stouchlighting.com+3