Beauty Against Blue Light

In today's day and age, we are increasingly dependent on technology and can’t imagine a world without our phones, laptops, iPads, etc. But what many of us may not realise is that the more time we spend in front of our devices the more harm we may be doing to our skin.

As it turns out, eye strain, tech neck and headaches are not the only reasons why we should consider taking our screen time down a notch. There is a specific type of light emitted from the screens of our tech devices called blue light, and constant exposure can also harm your skin and, just like UVA and UVB rays, may cause premature skin ageing.

To help us learn more about blue light, including what it is, how it affects the skin, and what you can do about it, we reached out to Natasha Delport at SKNLOGIC Cosmeceutical skincare. 

What is blue light? 

Blue light (also known as high energy visible light, or HEV) is the strong light that is emitted from the screens on cell phones, computers, tablets, and TV’s, as well as from fluorescent and LED lighting. The sun also emits blue light.

What are the effects of blue light on the skin?  

Research indicates that blue light can reach deeper into our skin than UVA and UVB rays, attributing the following to blue light exposure: 

- Hyperpigmentation, similar to the effect of UVA.

- Decrease in the proteins that support skin elasticity. 

- Skin cell inflammation.

- Degradation of the skin barrier.

What can you do to limit the harmful effects of blue light? 

Use a sunblock that protects not only from UVA and UVB rays, but also protects from the harmful effects of blue light, like Cetaphil Sun Face Fluid.

What is the best way to protect your skin from blue light? 

In addition to a blue light protection sunscreen, you can also add on an anti-oxidant booster such as serums that contain vitamin C, vitamin E and ferulic acid, which will further protect the skin from oxidation caused by blue light.  

Do skincare products targeting blue light really work?  

Absolutely, there have been many studies on blue light and its effect on the skin and ingredients that protect against these effects. It is, however, important to keep in mind that unlike sunscreen, blue light protection isn’t closely regulated, so be thorough in your research, talk to your skin care therapist or dermatologist, and choose a brand that you trust that puts skin health first

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Take screen time breaks

Make time for "blue light breaks": put your electronic devices away and take a 10-minute walk, close your laptop during lunch, and create a digital-free nighttime regimen that helps you get away from blue light exposure before you go to sleep.

Incorporate products that offers blue light protection

Use products (serums and creams) containing antioxidants like vitamin C, E and Idebenone as these can fight the harmful effects of blue light and also reverse the damage. 

Also look out for products with built in blue light protections such as the Sorbet BB Cream. This multifunctional cream is formulated with SPF 15 protection and powerful Lumicease™ blue ingredient, which is known to help prepare, protect, and repair skin from solar and artificial blue light induced damage, minimising the main signs of photo-ageing, spots and wrinkles. 

SPF every day

Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF30 is one of the best ways you can protect yourself.

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