Remember when your parents and titas said “gadgets” are bad for you? Little did they know it was for this reason. Blue light effects may not sound as ominous as those of ultraviolet rays, but this invisible threat is real and close.
What is Blue Light?
Blue light, also known as High Energy Visible (HEV) light, is a color of visible light. In high doses, blue light can cause damage when absorbed by skin cells. The common question is if it can lead to poor eyesight or even blindness. The short answer, according to Harvard Health, is no. The amount of blue light from electronic devices is not harmful to the eyes. However, it can affect your body clock and your skin.
Blue Light Effects on Skin
A 2020 study by Unilever Science & Technology found that 64% of people are unaware of the effects of blue light on the skin. According to their research, exposure to blue light from digital devices for more than six hours a day over five working days can have the same impact on the skin as 25 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. Here are some blue light effects to watch out for:
- Blue light can induce immediate and persistent pigmentation that can last for three months or longer.
- With its ability to penetrate the skin deeper than UV light, 30 hours of exposure can increase inflammation levels in the cells by up to 40%.
- It can inhibit melatonin generation, , and excite nerves, which can disrupt sleep patterns and cause skin issues such as acne, sensitivity, dullness, and itching.
- A study by Life Journal published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that at 410 nanometers, blue light can disrupt the nighttime rhythm of skin cells, making it like daytime at night. This can affect the cells’ ability to regenerate and repair themselves.
Skin Protection from Blue Light
When it comes to protecting the skin from blue light, it’s not enough to limit screen time – although it certainly helps a lot. Unfortunately, not many people – especially those with desk jobs or do digital work – have that option. Here’s what you can do to minimize or neutralize blue light effects on the skin:
Use BB cream.
Use products with optics or particles that scatter or reflect light to prevent skin discoloration. Try applying BB cream during the day. The Unilever study notes that it can minimize the effects of blue light by up to 80%.
Apply physical sunscreen.
Better yet, use a broad-spectrum, physical to protect your skin from both UV and blue light. These have physical particles that sit on the epidermis after application, keeping visible light from infiltrating the skin. Look for zinc oxide on the ingredients list.
Get to know vitamin B6 better.
Vitamin B6 suppresses oxidative stress and combats antioxidant depletion from overexposure to visible light. Bonus: it’s also a stress buster! It can help regulate cortisol levels and improve mood caused by lack of sleep.
Harness the power of niacinamide.
is a powerful ingredient that restores cellular health and combats oxidative stress. A 2020 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that it has a strong potential to protect against blue light-induced hyperpigmentation.
For extra protection, use an advanced serum duo like POND'S NEW YORK Bright Brilliance Day Serum Essence Vitamin C PRO and POND'S NEW YORK Bright Brilliance Night Serum Essence Niacinamide.
The day serum enhances UV damage and blue light defense with vitamin C. It also strengthens the skin’s protective barrier against external aggressors with Bifida Ferment Lysate.
The night serum has niacinamide and Actience that inhibit melanin formation and encourage skin renewal overnight. It fights against dark spots, evens out the skin tone, and refines the skin. It also contains resveratrol, which boosts antioxidants and neutralizes free radicals.
Load up on vitamin C.
Load up on antioxidant-rich foods and use products with . It aids in and cellular repair and helps lighten dark spots. It can also help with oxidative damage induced by blue light. If blue light is dulling your skin, use a cleanser like Eskinol Naturals Micellar Facial Wash Clear with Natural Lemon Extracts, which is loaded with vitamin C to help minimize its effects.
If you can’t cut back on screen time, combat and reverse blue light effects with skincare products. Look for ones that are rich in antioxidants that can help with repair and renewal. Try to shut down your devices at least two hours before sleeping, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen even indoors.