Why Do Lights Look Blurry at Night?: 1 Minute to Understand Nighttime Blurriness in Lights

At night, you might notice that lights—like street lamps or car headlights—appear blurry, haloed, or have starburst effects. This blurry appearance is primarily due to how our eyes process light in dark conditions. When it's nighttime, our pupils dilate to let in more light, but this also means they can't focus as precisely. Other possible reasons include dry eyes, refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), astigmatism, or eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma. Environmental factors like foggy car windows or dirty glasses can also amplify the blurring effect. From a design perspective, understanding how lighting interacts with human vision at night is crucial for creating comfortable, well-lit interiors. For instance, designers often use warmer bulbs, layered lighting, and focused fixtures to minimize glare and enhance visibility in nighttime environments. That’s why a thoughtful approach to lighting design in interiors can make a significant difference for users moving around after dark.

Tips 1:

If you’re finding lights increasingly blurry at night, make sure your glasses prescription is up to date and try using artificial tears for dry eyes. In your space, use lampshades, diffusers, and glare-reducing bulbs to soften harsh light.

FAQ

Q: Is it normal for lights to look blurry at night?

A: Some blurring is common in low light, but persistent or severe blurriness could indicate an eye health issue and should be checked by an eye care professional.

Q: Can certain types of lighting reduce nighttime blurriness?

A: Yes, warm and diffused lighting can reduce glare and make spaces feel more comfortable at night.

Q: What eye problems cause blurry vision at night?

A: Common causes include myopia, astigmatism, cataracts, and dry eyes. Each affects how your eyes focus light, leading to blurriness.

Q: How can interior design help with nighttime vision?

A: Layered lighting schemes, using multiple light sources at varying heights and brightness, help minimize harsh shadows and glare, making spaces easier to navigate in the dark.

Q: Are there tools or software to plan better lighting in my home?

A: Yes, designers often use specialized software to plan optimal lighting layouts that address vision needs and style preferences.