Blue light is everywhere we go. This is not to be confused with blue light therapy, which may be from lights that are the color blue; blue light is also known as high energy visible light. Blue light is emitted from many electronics, including laptops, computers, televisions, and smartphones. It’s left many people wondering, does blue light cause aging?
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Does Blue Light Cause Aging
Numerous studies like this one have directly linked blue light exposure to aging. Not only can blue light accelerate aging, but it can also cause hyperpigmentation, such as those little brown dots we call age or sun spots.
Cellular Damage
Blue light alters the way cells function, leading to cellular damage. Many cells die faster, leading to premature aging. This can be caused by the breakdown of collagen at an earlier age or the damage to elastin.
Circadian Rhythm
Blue light is known to disrupt your circadian rhythm, which is the cycle of when you are asleep or awake. Staring at a smartphone before bed can easily lead to not getting a good night’s sleep. However, your skin repairs itself while you’re sleeping. Not giving your skin the time and chance to repair itself can result in premature aging, including fine lines and wrinkles.
Hyperpigmentation
Blue light stimulates the production of melanin, which is responsible for pigmentation. Increased melanin production often leads to age spots or uneven skin tone.
More Damaging Than UV Light?
Blue light has been shown to penetrate deeper into the skin than UV light, and we all know how damaging UV light is. However, more research needs to be conducted to determine the exact effects of blue light on skin and on a cellular level. In the meantime, it’s best to protect yourself whenever you can to avoid premature aging and potential cellular damage.
How To Protect Your Skin From Blue Light Damage
Premature aging can happen slowly over time, but it occurs at an accelerated pace when exposed to blue light. People who work as influencers may spend hours on their phones editing photos and videos to get the perfect shot.
Office employees spend hours in front of a computer screen. Thankfully, there are a few ways you can protect yourself against the premature aging blue light has become known for.
Change Your Settings
Head to the display settings on whatever device you use. This applies to televisions, laptops, computers, smartphones, tablets, etc. There should be an option to reduce blue light. Some devices call it “cool” light and red light “warm.”
Some devices also have a “nightlight” mode. This mode is designed to make the screen darker and easier on your eyes in the evening. It emits less blue light than most devices’ standard mode, so your screen may look yellow or amber.
Limit Screen Time
Some people don’t have the option to limit screen time, such as those who use devices for work, school, etc. However, limit screen time if you’re not using a device because you have to. Pick up a new hobby, like reading or hiking. Explore other interests, and practice being present in the moment instead of trying to get the perfect picture.
Blue Light Blocking Glasses
Some people insist on blue light blocking glasses. These are great to protect your eyes from possible damage, but they don’t do anything for your skin. If you do use blue light blocking glasses, it’s essential to use other measures to prevent premature aging from blue light.
There is no evidence that blue light damages the eyes, but researchers continue to study its impact, so we don’t know what they will find in the future.
Screen Protectors
There are special screen protectors designed to block out blue light. These protectors are designed to help filter blue light so you aren’t exposed to as much of it. You can tell whether a blue light filter works by looking at it from a 90-degree angle. Typically, the blue light filter will appear violet or a shade of blue when you aren’t looking at it directly.
Screen protectors remain one of the best options because you can protect your skin, eyes, etc. There’s less chance of blue light interrupting your sleep schedule because none of your body will be as exposed to blue light. You can easily find blue light filters that fit over phone, tablet, and computer screens.
Our Picks:
- Blue Light Blocking Screen Protector Panel for 23, 23.6, 23.8, 24 inch Diagonal PC
- Blue Light Screen Protector for iPhone
Sunscreen
If you’re still using a basic sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, it’s time to upgrade. Now, we know that everyone should wear sunscreen year-round or protect themselves, even on cloudy days and during winter months. Wear sunscreen as part of your morning skincare routine, and include sunscreen that protects you from blue light damage.
One way to find a sunscreen or product that provides blue light protection is to check the ingredients. Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, iron oxide, and some antioxidants transform a standard sunscreen into a broad spectrum that can help protect against blue light.
It’s crucial always to read product descriptions. Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against both types of UV rays and are more likely to protect against blue light damage, but some may not. Mineral sunscreens are also more likely to provide additional protection to help prevent premature aging from blue light.
Top-Rated Sunscreens
Finding a sunscreen that protects against blue light is crucial if you don’t have blue light protectors on all your devices and televisions. Most people wear a standard sunscreen daily, so you can easily switch it out to include a broad spectrum sunscreen in your routine.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant and Non-Greasy Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 70
Neutrogena sunscreen offers affordable, broad-spectrum protection. It doesn’t leave a greasy residue on your skin and is known for its long-lasting power. It’s ideal for protection when you aren’t wearing makeup or want something for your entire body. The lightweight lotion absorbs quickly for fast protection.
Why You’ll Love It
- Affordable
- Non-greasy
- Lightweight
Ogee Skin Enhancing Primer SPF 40
A broad spectrum mineral sunscreen designed to prime, nourish, and protect your skin. Ogee SPF primer is infused with antioxidants to help nourish the skin while the active ingredient zinc oxide provides superior protection.
The lightweight formula is breathable, ensuring it doesn’t feel heavy on your skin. As with all Ogee products, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and made with certified organic ingredients. You also won’t find any gluten in the formula.
Why You’ll Love It
- Lightweight
- Dries quickly
- Broad protection
- Breathable
Does Blue Light Cause Aging
Yes, blue light can lead to premature aging. It can cause the breakdown of collagen and damage elastin, making you develop fine lines and wrinkles sooner. Blue light can also cause hyperpigmentation, age spots, or an uneven complexion.
Protect your skin via sunscreen or a blue light screen protector. If you use a sunscreen to protect your skin, don’t forget to put it on your hands, or you’ll notice your hands will age faster than your face. Check out the rest of the site to learn more.
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