By now, most of us are aware of the negative effects of the sun’s UV rays on our skin. But what about constant blue light, and its damaging effects? While blue light also comes from the sun, its other sources can be much harder to hide from, such as TVs, computers, laptops, smart phones, tablets, other electronic devices, fluorescent and LED lights. The amount of blue light emitted from screens is pretty small in comparison to the sun, but excessive and long-term use of our devices has sparked concern among doctors, dermatologists, and other health practitioners about the harmful consequences that could be in store.
“Blue” or high-energy visible (HEV) light isn’t all bad, but as information becomes available, it’s clear that the negatives far outweigh the positives.
On a positive note, blue light from the sun can contribute to stronger memory, elevated mood and overall good health. However, overexposure can interrupt sleep patterns as well as weaken the skin’s natural protective barrier, causing inflammation and damaging free radicals (the elements of your skin that repair damage). Over time, this contributes to premature aging of the skin. It may also break down collagen and elasticity, causing wrinkles and sagging. Skin damage from blue light can also appear in other forms, such as hyperpigmentation, patches and dark spots.
Of course, blue light isn't the sole offender. Your smartphone is covered in germs, so holding it against your face, or handling it then touching your skin transfers those germs, which can cause or aggravate acne.
We often squint, knowingly or not, when reading on screens, which can result in fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes.
The way we look at screens, in particular our phones, is one of the culprits for tech (or text) neck. Not only can it result in neck and shoulder pain, stiffness and mobility issues, but the delicate skin on the neck is highly prone to creasing and loss of elasticity, causing skin to look “crepey.”
The problem is, the majority of us spend more hours than we’d like to admit gazing at a screen or surrounded by LED lights. It’s unrealistic to remove them from our lives completely, so try these tips to be aware and take care, so your skin can glow brighter than your screen.
1. Exercise
When you increase your heart rate, you improve blood flow, which carries oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Extra oxygen and nutrients promote collagen production and restore skin cells which helps defend skin against the effects of aging.
2. Reduce the brightness
By reducing the brightness of your phone and other devices, you can reduce blue light exposure by 60-70%.
3. Use the right sunscreen
Most sunscreens don’t contain iron oxide, which can protect your skin from blue light. Speak to a dermatologist about a sunscreen that will help protect your skin from blue light exposure, and don’t wait until going out in the sun to use it!
4. Get your antioxidants
Antioxidants are known protectors of skin cells, among many other health benefits. Protecting skin cells can reduce the damage that would otherwise be done by blue light exposure. Antioxidants are found in “superfoods” like kiwis, cherries, broccoli, dark veggies, and blueberries, to name a few. Many supplements and skincare products can help support a healthy daily dose of antioxidants. Look for ingredients such as vitamins C, E, and niacin, and consult with a nutritionist or skincare expert about quality products.
5. Clean your phone
The best way to get rid of those germs is to clean your phone daily using disinfectant wipes or spray and a microfiber cloth. If using a disinfectant spray, avoid phone damage by spraying the cloth before wiping the phone. It’s also best to avoid contact between your face and phone altogether by using earpieces.
6. Practice good posture
Be mindful of how you look at screens. Sit upright in a proper chair with your chin drawn back, aligning your ears with your shoulders. This will lengthen your spine and neck, reducing chances of spinal cord compression. Practicing good posture will reduce creasing of the neck’s fragile skin as well as reduce the risk of pain, discomfort and injury caused by tech neck. It can also help you breathe better and feel more energetic and stronger.
7. Adopt a skincare routine
Skin is the largest organ of your body. Make sure you protect and care for it with quality products, moisturizers and plenty of water. The recommended intake is a minimum of 3 litres or 8 glasses of H2O per day. A dermatologist or skincare professional can identify what your skin may need most, and customize a skincare routine to suit you.