Whenever you are using your phone or computer, you are exposed to blue light. It may cause eye strain and make it difficult for you to fall asleep. With this, many people invest in blue-light blocking glasses.
While many are familiar with the effect of blue light to our eyes, many failed to consider the impact of blue light to our skin. As we spend more and more time in front of our phone and computer, how can we mitigate the impact of blue light on our skin?
Can Blue Light Cause Damage to Our Skin?
New studies show that blue light can cause generation of reactive oxygen species. According to the National Cancer Institute, it is an unstable molecule that contains oxygen and reacts with other molecules.
According to CNET, these reactive oxygen species damage skin cells and result to faster aging due to the breakdown of collagen and elastin.
Some studies also suggest that blue light can cause sustained pigment changes.
According to Dr. Michele Farber of Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City, studies about blue light and skin damage are just emerging but there's no reason to disregard the potential for skin damage.
Meanwhile, Dr. Marie Hayag, a medical and cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City, told CNET that blue light can potentially damage skin in a number of ways.
One of the many damages that blue light can cause is it can "induce oxidative stress, which can lead to inflammation and collagen degeneration."
Blue light can also disrupts activity of melanocytes. It can lead to uneven and excessive pigmentation. Moreover, it can contribute to photoaging, or skin aging induced by light waves.
Another impact that blue light can have to our skin is it can weaken the outermost layer of our skin and delays its recovery from daily skin stressors.
Read Also: Sleep Problems And Cancer May Be Lessened By Turning Lights Off
How Can We Protect Our Skin From Blue Light?
There are several ways to protect our skin from blue light. Some are as follows:
1. You can use an excellent broad-spectrum SPF
Since digital screens emit blue light, it is ideal to use sunscreen. Even if you remain inside the house, you can wear sunscreen to prevent any potential damage to your skin from the blue light coming from your phone and computer.
2. You can use skincare products packed with antioxidants
Choose skin care products packed with antioxidants. A stronger skin barrier will help in reducing the harmful effects of blue light. The antioxidants protect the skin. It slows down the production of free radicals that damage our skin cells.
3. You can put a blue light screen protector
To reduce the harmful rays from digital devices, it is advised to use a blue light screen protector. This transparent sheet serves as a barrier on the screen. It protects you from the blue light being emitted by the screen.
4. You can switch to night mode
It is best to switch your screen settings to night mode, at night. It disables blue light and enables yellow light instead. It reduces eye strain and prevents skin aging.
Related Article: iPhone Night Shift Blue Light Feature Is Not Really Helping You Sleep Better: Study
