Blue light (scientifically known as high energy visible (HEV) light) is a color in the visible light spectrum that can be seen by human eyes. This light is a short wavelength, meaning that it produces higher amounts of energy, and is emitted from the sun and the digital devices of our daily life (TVs, Smartphones, computers, laptops, tablets, LED light, etc.).
So, let's dive into what matters: does blue light affect our skin and overall health? (Unfortunately, the research on the effects of blue light on the skin is poor, but some studies may hold clues).
If you’re serious about preventing premature aging, some studies say protection from UVA and UVB rays is no longer enough, as evolving research confirms that blue light is also bad for our skin.
Dr Murad, recognized by the London Times as "World's Top Dermatologist”, explains that, “spending four eight-hour workdays in front of a computer exposes you to the same amount of energy as 20 minutes in the mid-day sun". To put this in perspective, seven minutes of sun exposure at 1pm is powerful enough to induce immediate tanning. That is, the amount of blue light emitted by our devices is only a fraction of that given off by the sun, but the problem is that we are constantly spending more and more time looking at these devices and keeping them close to our face and head. Therefore, recent studies are starting to evaluate the effects of long-term, low-level exposure to the blue light and linking them to signs of aging such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles.
On the other hand, blue light not only affects the skin but can also disturb our biological clocks. Blue light compromises our “beauty sleep” by disrupting our natural circadian rhythm. For example, if exposed to significant amounts of blue light at night you may find it more difficult to fall asleep, since blue light affects the level of melatonin (our sleep hormone). Dr Nadine Pernodet, Estée Lauder Companies’ scientific spokesperson, explains that exposure to blue light at night can throw skin’s natural circadian rhythm ‘out-of-sync’, causing skin cells to continue to ‘think’ it is daytime, impacting their natural nighttime repair process, leading to visible signs of aging, and even dark under-eye circles.
To protect against blue light, Unilever’s scientists recommend using products that include ingredients that minimize or neutralize blue light, as well as restore skin. So, their recommendation is too look for products including:
- BB cream is scientifically proven to minimize the effects of blue light by 80%.
- Zinc Oxide - creates a protective barrier for the skin.
- Vitamin C - protects and recovers skin cells from blue-light-induced oxidative damage.
- Vitamin B6 - combats visible-light-induced antioxidant depletion and effectively suppresses oxidative stress caused by visible light.
- Niacinamide restores skin surface cells from blue-light-induced oxidative stress and provides strong protection against skin damage caused by blue light.
Furthermore, another way to prevent blue light damage is to cut down the daily screen time, invest in a screen protector for your electronics and use a sunscreen on the face (with at least SPF 30) in your daily routine.
Products to fight the effects of blue light on the skin
Eucerin: Sun Protection anti aging sun fluid SPF50 - It contains antioxidants like licochalcone, which neutralizes the free radicals caused by UV and blue light. It also contains glycyrrhetinic acid to support the skin's own DNA repair mechanism.
Avène: A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum - Free radicals don't stand a chance against this antioxidant-rich, multitasking serum that takes on dull complexions, dryness and fine lines with ease. This is a fast absorbing formulation rich in vitamin C, vitamin E and hydrating hyaluronic acid.
Estée Lauder: Advanced Night Repair - This advanced hyaluronic acid serum supports the skin’s natural renewal process to help repair the visible impact of the multiple assaults of modern life - lack of sleep, blue light, pollution, UV and ozone.
ISDIN: skin drops - The lightweight formula might be part of your makeup routine but it also offers skin care benefits. It contains powerful zinc oxide to block visible light.
Elizabeth Arden: Prevage City Smart SPF50 - The pigments and antioxidants in these product help to protect against blue-light damage from our tech devices.