In this digital age where we are surrounded by technology, it’s impossible to escape them. Devices like mobile phones, laptops, computers, screens, etc. emit blue light. So, indoors or outdoors, we practically bask in the blue light throughout the day. Though it looks fun to scroll through your phone or binge-watch your TV shows, we forget the impact blue light can have on our skin. Let’s understand blue light and explore more.
WHAT IS BLUE LIGHT?
Blue light is a high-energy, short-wavelength light that is emitted by the sun and the digital devices that we use. The sun is the primary source of blue light and is one of the important components necessary to maintain the body clock. However, excess consumption of anything is too bad for your health! Hence an overdose of blue light will trigger problems. Let’s understand the advantages and disadvantages of the blue light.
THE GOOD SIDE
Exposure to the sun’s blue light improves mood and increases alertness. The blue light plays an important role when it comes to regulating our body clock. It helps to regulate our sleep-wake cycle and a healthy circadian rhythm. Now, when it comes to treating skin conditions, blue light does stand out. Exposure to blue light therapy can treat conditions like acne. It has anti-bacterial properties which inhibit the growth of bacteria and treat the symptoms.
THE BAD SIDE
The biggest threat of blue light can be associated with its ability to penetrate the skin deeply. It can go deeper than the UV rays into the skin! When the blue light penetrates the skin, it generates free radicals and leads to oxidative stress. They further damage the skin and lead to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and premature aging. It also plays a hand in disrupting our sleep cycle and causes dark circles. The late-night binge-watch isn’t so fun now, right? Blue light also has been associated with melasma, when it comes in contact with the dark patches caused by melasma, it can worsen the condition.
HOW TO STAY SAFE?
There are a couple of ways you can minimize the effect of blue light on the skin. Let’s explore a couple of them.
- BREAKS
Give yourself a breather from screen time. Take regular breaks and try moving around and stretch your muscles giving your skin time off from the radiation.
- SCREEN PROTECTORS
The screen protectors filter out the blue light emitted by the device screens and reduce their intensity. They keep your skin safe by reducing the exposure to the blue light.
- NIGHT MODE
Some of the devices have a ‘night mode’ setting in them. It reduces the emission of blue light. Activate that setting, especially during the evening and night.
- ANTIOXIDANTS
Introduce antioxidants like vitamin C, and vitamin E in your skincare routine. Products with antioxidants help fight the free radicals generated due to the blue light and keep your skin healthy.
Considering the lifestyle lately, it’s impossible to stay away from digital devices. So, it’s important to maintain a proper balance while using the technologies.