Invention of computer, laptop, smart phones and smart watches have made us technology-addicts. In today’s technology-driven world, not one day passes without looking at the screens. Whether its for connecting with our loved ones on chats and video calls, online classes, 9-5 job or simply scrolling instagram and tik tok to get a break, we spend hours staring at screens every day. However, this increased screen time comes with a hidden cost – the harmful effects of blue light on skin and eyes.
In this blog, we will delve deeper into the world of blue light exposure from screens and uncover the ways in which it can harm our skin. We will explore the science behind blue light and effects of blue light on skin, as well as provide practical tips and strategies to help you protect your skin from this silent saboteur. So, if you’re ready to take control of your skin health in the digital age, let’s get started!
But First, What is this Blue Light Emmission?
Blue light is a short wavelength of light with higher amounts of energy, also known as high-energy visible (HEV) light. It is a type of light that is emitted by electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, smart watches and televisions. The sun also emits blue light more than other lights that’s why we see sky as blue. Since it is a higher energy light, we see sky as blue even after an hour of sunset. That means blue light affects skin even of we are not infront of our screens.
How Blue Light Affects Skin ?
We have read above that the blue light is a short wavelength but high energy light so it has the potential to penetrate our epidermis, the first layer of the skin. When our skin has prolonged exposure to the blue light it causes damage to skin cells, causing cell shrinkage and premature death.
Blue light exposure prevents collagen and elastin production. These are enzymes that provide structure, strength, support and elasticity in your body. Ultimately, the results are fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. You might see swelling and redness too in extreme cases.
Over exposure to blue light affects skin by increasing production of melanin. Melanin is a substance in your body that gives your eyes, hair and skin a deeper color. That means too much blue light exposure can give you dark spots and patches on your beautiful skin. Hold on! that’s not all.
Screen time and dark circles have a strong cause and effect relationship. We all are habitual of using our smart phones before dozing off to sleep. Since screen is a strong stressor to the eyes and straining the eyes can have a detrimental effect on your natural sleep cycle. Consequence? dark circles and baggy eyes.
How To Prevent Blue Light Skin Damage?
Sunscreen
You might have heard from dermatologists or read on the internet that one must wear sunscreen not only going outdoors but when staying indoors too. Right? So now do you understand why? Because not only we are exposed to sunlight outside but inside too. So the very solution to stay away from the damaging effects of blue light on skin is to wear sunscreens with atleast 30+SPF. Such products create a protecting layer on the surface of the skin acting as a barrier for the rays to penetrate the skin.
Blue Light Filter
Look for blue light filter in your phone’s or laptop’s settings. Many smart phones and laptops have the filter labelled as night light filter. Turn it on and make sure to keep it on everytime you access these devices. It decreases the amount of blue light emitting from their screen and protects skin from the possible damage.
Wearing Blue Light Blocking Glasses
You should wear blue light blocking glasses as a protection because the blue light affects skin around the eyes, causing dark circles. It also protects your eyes from straining and stressing. To add a double layer of protection, use both, the screen filter as well as glasses.
Keep Phones Away Before Sleeping
It is advised to keep your phones or laptop away atleast half an hour before going to bed at night. This is because screen time affects your sleep cycle. Keeping it away before dozing off will give give you a sound sleep.
While blue light plays an important role in regulating our sleep-wake cycle, prolonged exposure to it can have detrimental effects on our skin. From premature aging, dark spots, dryness and dullness to darkening of skin, many of us may not even realize that our screens are silently sabotaging our skin.
How To Reverse Blue Light Damage On Skin?
Fortunately, there are products that can help you reverse or reduce the already done damage on your skin due to blue light from screens and the best part is that you won’t have to spend any extra bucks from your wallet for buying them. They would already be a part of your skin care regime. These products are vitamin C serum, niacinamide, vitamin E oils, hyaluronic acid and hydration creams. The potent antioxidants combat harmful free radicals that harm the skin, aiding in skin rejuvenation, enhancing skin tone, and replenishing lost moisture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, with the advancements in technology, we have become more and more reliant on our screens for various tasks, leading to increased exposure to blue light. However, the harmful effects of blue light on skin are often overlooked. Prolonged exposure to blue light can lead to premature aging, skin damage, and even dark circles. Therefore, it is crucial to take steps to protect our skin from this silent saboteur.
By using sunscreen, turning on the blue light filter, wearing blue light blocking glasses, and keeping our phones away before sleeping, we can significantly reduce our exposure to blue light. Additionally, incorporating various anti-oxidant serums into our skincare routine can help reverse or reduce the damaging effects of blue light on skin.
In short, by being mindful of our screen time and taking steps to protect our skin, we can maintain our skin’s health and beauty in the digital age.
