How Blue Light Damages The Skin & What You Can Do To Prevent That

While we're well aware of the harmful impacts of sunlight on our skin, have you considered the consequences of blue light exposure? Blue light, the kind emitted by screens, isn't just detrimental to your eyes; it can also have a detrimental impact on your skin.

What is blue light?

Blue light is something that is emitted from the screens. However, blue light is prevalent generally everywhere, even in sunlight. However, it was found that blue light emitted from the screens creates a direct impact on the skin. Also called HEV (High Energy Visible) light, blue light is emitted from our smartphones, tablets and TVs as per a study titled "Can light emitted from smartphone screens and taking selfies cause premature ageing and wrinkles?" can cause skin damage and premature ageing as well.

Another study titled "Pigmentation effects of blue light irradiation on skin and how to protect against them" has mentioned how being exposed to a lot of blue light from the sun can lead to melasma and hyperpigmentation. Another study titled "Blue-Violet Light Irradiation Dose Dependently Decreases Carotenoids in Human Skin, Which Indicates the Generation of Free Radicals" mentioned how blue light might stimulate the production of free radicals that can lead to the ageing of the skin.

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How can you protect your skin from the detrimental effects of blue light?

There are some measures one can take to protect the skin from the detrimental effects of blue light. Some of these measures are:

Using screen filters

Use blue light filters or screen protectors for your electronic devices, like smartphones, tablets, and computer screens. These filters can reduce the amount of blue light that reaches your skin.

Reduction of screen time

This is pretty much the most basic aspect. Limit your screen time, especially before bedtime. This can help reduce your exposure to blue light, as it can disrupt your sleep patterns as well.

Adjust your screen settings

Many devices now come with blue light reduction settings. Activate these settings, which often change the screen's colour temperature to emit less blue light, especially during evening hours.

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Try anti-blue light glasses

Consider wearing anti-blue light glasses when using screens for extended periods. These glasses can help block or reduce the amount of blue light reaching your eyes and skin.

Try skincare products with antioxidants

Look for skincare products that are formulated to protect against the effects of blue light. Ingredients like antioxidants, niacinamide, and peptides can help mitigate the potential damage. These products create a barrier and can neutralize the free radicals generated by blue light exposure.

Use a sunscreen

Even indoors, it's a good practice to apply sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection. While blue light is not as harmful as UV radiation, it's still a part of the electromagnetic spectrum and can contribute to skin damage over time. Sunscreens with added antioxidants can provide extra protection.

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Maintain a healthy lifestyle

A well-balanced diet rich in antioxidants, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular exercise can help keep your skin healthy and better equipped to deal with environmental stressors like blue light.

Consult a dermatologist

If you have specific concerns about the health of your skin in relation to blue light exposure, consult a dermatologist. They can provide personalized advice, recommend suitable skincare products, and offer treatments tailored to your skin's needs.

Ensure sleep hygiene

Ensure a good sleep routine. Quality sleep is essential for skin health, and reducing blue light exposure before bedtime can not only improve your sleep but it can also premature skin ageing.

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So, protect your skin from blue light damage and thank these measures after 10 years.