What is blue light?
We all know about UVA and UVB rays (and wear broad-spectrum SPF every day to protect ourselves, right?). Think of blue light in the same family. “Blue light is a spectrum of light that is emitted mainly by the sun, but also by our digital devices,” Andrea explains “as our use of such devices increases, so does our exposure to blue light”.
How does blue light affect the skin?
Again, think about how UV rays penetrate the skin at different levels. “Blue light has one of the shortest, highest-energy wavelengths which means it can penetrate the skin more deeply than UV” Andrea points out. It has also been shown to generate more ROS (reactive oxygen species) than UVA and UVB combined, “a build-up of ROS can cause damage to skin cells”.
What are the effects of blue light on skin?
Long-term or excessive exposure to blue light can cause visible damage to the skin. According to Andrea, “it accelerates the oxidation process which is directly linked to photoaging and causes hyperpigmentation, inflammation and weakening of the skin’s barrier”. Basically, it can lead to dehydration, sensitivity and premature ageing.
What are the effects of blue light on the body?
Exposure to blue light at night suppresses melatonin production (the hormone that makes us tired) so it can interrupt sleep. Remember, the biggest source of blue light is the sun – that’s why exposure from electronic devices can trick the body into thinking it’s daytime. Some exposure in daylight can lift your mood though, just like a sunny day.
How can I reduce blue light exposure?
Let’s start with your tech – and no, we won’t say cut down on Netflix time (we’re being realistic here). Most smartphones have a setting – ‘Night Shift’ on iPhone – that limits the blue light emitted by its display by making it warmer in tone. It reduces the strain on your eyes but also the damage to your skin. You can also buy blue light shields for all devices.
How can I protect my skin?
SPF is a pretty good place to start. Not all sunscreens protect against blue light though so look for mineral formulas containing zinc oxide. Andrea also recommends incorporating products that are rich in antioxidants into your skincare routine. Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Lutein are perfect for this, “antioxidants help to protect the skin from free radical damage caused by blue light exposure but they also help the skin to heal”.
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FAQs
What is blue light and where does it come from?
Blue light is a spectrum of light emitted mainly by the sun and also by digital devices like phones and laptops. As device usage increases, so does exposure to blue light during daily activities.
How does blue light affect your skin?
Blue light can penetrate the skin more deeply than UV rays because of its short, high-energy wavelength. It generates more reactive oxygen species (ROS) than UVA and UVB combined, which can cause skin cell damage over time.
What skin problems can be caused by blue light exposure?
Long-term or excessive blue light exposure can lead to premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, dehydration, sensitivity and a weakened skin barrier. The process accelerates oxidation and causes inflammation, making skin more vulnerable and sensitive.
How does blue light exposure affect your sleep and mood?
Exposure to blue light at night suppresses melatonin production, which can interrupt your sleep. During the day, some blue light exposure can actually lift your mood and increase alertness, similar to the effect of natural sunlight.
How can you protect your skin from blue light?
Start with SPF but ensure it protects against blue light by choosing mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide. Using skincare products rich in antioxidants like Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Lutein helps protect your skin from free radical damage caused by blue light exposure and aids healing.
How can you reduce your blue light exposure from digital devices?
Use settings like ‘Night Shift’ on iPhone to limit blue light emitted from screens by making the display warmer in tone. You can also buy blue light shields for your devices to reduce eye strain as well as skin damage.