Living in the digital age has changed many facets of our lives. It has introduced social media platforms and it has made us more dependent upon our devices for information, work, entertainment and even relationships. Although with its advantages, this dependency unfortunately bares a number of downsides (which are far from pretty).
Blue light denotes to the short but high-energy wavelengths on the blue end of the visible light spectrum. Blue light can be found in two main sources – the sun and our digital screens (LED lights) which include smartphones, televisions, iPads, kindles and many others. It is predicted that this light can produce oxidative stress and release free radicals which cause colour changes, pigmentation, inflammation and the weakening of the skin’s surfaces.
Although the sun is the more powerful and predominant source of blue light, the concern surrounding the man-made blue light is that individuals are using them more frequently and much closer to our bodies which can cause skin damage. Leading dermatologist, Dr Murad, found that “spending four eight-hour workdays in front of a computer exposes you to the same amount of energy as 20 minutes in the midday sun”.
This is also not inclusive of the additional digital time when watching television or looking through social media on your smartphone. Considering that, according to Paula’s
Choice, we check our smartphones over 150 times per day, extensive skin damage may occur if we remain unprotected. There are many effective recommendations that dermatologists and blue-light researchers provide. In relation to trying to block the power of the blue light rays, it is encouraged that we buy blue light screen shields for digital devices or frequently activate the night mode function which switches the blue light to a less damaging yellow light. You can also purchase blue-light protective glasses to wear when using digital screens for extensive periods.
Focusing specifically on skincare, there are two main categories dermatologists recommend focusing on to combat blue light skincare damage – broad-spectrum sunscreen and antioxidant serums.
It is stressed that you should apply sunscreen every day, regardless of whether you will be venturing outside or not. Sunscreen will create a strong barrier over your skin and help reflect the light rays. Her Economy exclusive product recommendations include:
1. Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF30
2. Olay Complete UV365 Daily Moisturizer SPF 30
3. Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF15
You should also look for antioxidant-filled serums which can boost the skin’s defence against the damaging light. Popular serums for blue light protection include:
4. Paula’s Choice Power Berry Serum
5. Dr. Barbara Strum Anti-Pollution Drops Digital and Air Pollution Protection For Your Skin
6. Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Serum
7. Chantecaille Blue Light Protection Hyaluronic Serum
Our other recommended products which can also help include:
8. BareMinerals Complex Rescue Defense Radiant Tint Protective Moisturizer SPF30
9. Superhero Antioxidant Moisturiser with Anti-Pollution and Blue Light Defence
10. Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex Synchronized Recovery
During a time where we are relying upon devices more than ever to stay in contact with family and friends, a source of entertainment and for work, it is crucial to understand what blue light is and the risks associated with it. To continue to reap the many benefits digital devices provide, it is important to equip ourselves with the protection to overcome their consequences.