By: Kelsie Matthews, L.E
Nowadays, we are becoming more reliant on our smart devices. Although we have had some great advancements in technology, having access to so many screens comes with its downfalls as well. One of the main disadvantages of sitting in front of your computer or phone all day is blue light or high-energy visible (HEV) light damage. I know this is a term many of us have heard through the media, but do we really know what it means for us?
Blue light is naturally found in sunlight. However, there are many other sources we are now getting exposure from. Other sources of blue light include digital screens (TVs, computers, laptops, smartphones and tablets), electronic devices, and fluorescent and LED lighting. Blue light is everywhere. Spending just two consecutive hours on your phone or in front of a computer without proper protection, can lead to many health concerns and greatly accelerate the aging of your skin. Some of the side effects you might experience after too much blue light exposure include fatigue, eye-strain and damage, disruption of circadian rhythm, and over time more fine lines/wrinkles and photo damage in the skin.
Blue light is so strong, it can penetrate all the way through to the dermis of the skin. What this means for us, is that it generates free radicals which release enzymes that break down the collagen and elastin in the skin. We refer to this as “extrinsic aging”. Collagen and elastin provide the youthful “plump” we all love to have, so when we start to lose those, our skin starts to sag and become dull and lifeless.
Because blue light rays penetrate the deeper that UVA and UVB rays from the sun, using a traditional SPF is not go
ing to give you full protection. Some of the best ways to protect yourself from getting overexposed to blue light are using protective glasses, wearing a skin protectant like the Lumivive System (our office favorite), limiting your screen time, and getting regular eye exams. Whether you work at a desk job, or you’re a social media junkie, everyone needs to be protecting themselves from blue light.