December 12, 2023
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2 MIN READ
Shielding Your Skin from Digital Damage: Embracing Blue Light Protection Skincare
In today’s world, technology is everywhere. We use smartphones, laptops, and tablets daily, but these devices emit blue light - a type of light that could be affecting our skin. Let’s explore what blue light is, how it impacts your skin, and why blue light protection in skincare is important.
Key takeaways
- Blue light from digital devices may cause skin issues like hyperpigmentation and premature aging.
- Antioxidant-rich skincare products and mineral sunscreens can help protect your skin from blue light damage.
- Simple habits like limiting screen time, using a blue light filter, and staying hydrated can reduce exposure.
What is blue light?
Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum and has a short wavelength. It’s found in sunlight but also comes from digital screens like phones, computers, and LED lights.
How does blue light affect your skin?
Studies suggest that prolonged exposure to blue light can harm your skin. Here’s how:
Hyperpigmentation
Blue light may increase melatonin production, leading to dark spots or uneven skin tone.
Faster aging
Oxidative stress caused by blue light can break down collagen, which speeds up the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.
Even though digital devices emit less blue light than the sun, the amount of time we spend close to screens raises concerns among dermatologists about long-term skin damage.
How blue light protection skincare helps
Blue light protection skincare works in two main ways:
Antioxidants: Ingredients rich in antioxidants help repair skin cells and reduce oxidative stress caused by blue light.
Mineral Filters: Sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can block blue light while also protecting against harmful UV rays.
Adding blue light protection to your skincare routine
Protecting your skin doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are simple steps to include blue light protection in your daily routine:
- Moisturiser: Use a moisturiser with antioxidants, like our Superactive Day Cream, which contains Blueberry NECTA®, an antioxidant-rich oil that shields your skin from blue light.
- Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Always apply sunscreen to guard against both UVA/UVB rays and blue light.
Extra tips to protect your skin from blue light
- Limit screen time and take regular breaks.
- Adjust your screen brightness to reduce blue light exposure.
- Use a blue light filter or activate night mode on your devices.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, hydration, and sleep.
The bottom line
While more research is needed to understand blue light’s full impact on the skin, evidence suggests that prolonged exposure may accelerate aging and cause pigmentation issues. Protecting your skin with blue light protection skincare and adjusting your habits can help minimise its effects.
References
Kumari, S. (2020). Theimpact of blue light and digital screens on the skin. Journal of CosmeticDermatology, 19(1), 11-20.
Xu, N., et al. (2018).Blue light induced skin damage: Molecular mechanisms and potentialcountermeasures. Antioxidants, 7(10), 173.
Direct and Indirect Effects of Blue Light Exposure on Skin: A Review of Published Literature
Wang, Y., et al. (2019).Blue light irradiation promotes pigmentation through activating the p38mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in human melanocytes. Photochemistryand Photobiology, 95(3), 558-566.
www.upcycledbeauty.com/blueberry-necta
https://cosmetics.specialchem.com/news/industry-news/beiersdorf-effect-blue-light-skin-000224662
Our products mentioned in this article
Sarah Rueger
About the author
Sarah is the founder of certified palm oil free natural skincare brand Amaranthine. She is a qualified organic skincare formulator and has diplomas in Beauty Therapy and Clinical Aromatherapy.
