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Does blue light damage your skin?
23.02.23
As technology has become more ubiquitous in our daily lives, we’ve become increasingly concerned about the potential harmful effects of blue light. With more and more of us spending extended periods of time in front of computer screens, smartphones, and other electronic devices, there’s growing interest in the impact that blue light may have on our health. One question that has arisen is whether blue light can damage our skin. In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind blue light and its potential impact on our skin.
First, let’s define what we mean by blue light. Blue light is a type of high-energy visible (HEV) light with wavelengths between 400-490 nm. It’s found in sunlight as well as in the artificial light emitted by electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Some studies suggest that blue light may cause skin damage. The primary concern is that blue light may cause oxidative stress, which can lead to premature aging and other skin issues. Oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and disease, while antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and protect cells.
One study, published in the Journal of Biomedical Physics and Engineering, found that exposure to blue light led to an increase in free radicals and a decrease in antioxidants in the skin. This suggests that blue light may contribute to oxidative stress and skin damage.
Another study, published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, found that blue light can penetrate deeper into the skin than UVA and UVB rays. This means that blue light may have a greater impact on the skin’s underlying structures, including collagen and elastin, which are important for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.
However, it’s important to note that the research on blue light and skin damage is still relatively new and limited. While some studies suggest that blue light may be harmful, others have found no significant impact on the skin. For example, a study published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology found that exposure to blue light did not cause any significant DNA damage or lipid peroxidation in the skin.
What should you do to protect your skin from blue light
While the research on blue light and skin damage is still ongoing, there are some steps you can take to minimize your exposure to blue light. Here are a few tips:
1/ Limit your screen time
Try to limit the amount of time you spend in front of electronic devices, especially before bed.
2/ Use blue light filters
Some smartphones, tablets, and computers have built-in blue light filters that can help reduce your exposure to blue light. You can also purchase screen protectors or glasses with blue light filters.
3/ Use skin care products that protect against blue light
Baxter Blue's Blue Light Defence Hydration Face Mist includes the scientifically backed ingredient BlueShield®, which has been clinically proven to reduce the effects of blue light damage on the skin. BlueShield® uses carotenoids found in red bell peppers that act as antioxidants to fight blue light on two fronts:
1/ Reduces photo oxidisation – protects the skin’s DNA from free radicals and reduces collagen and elastic degradation, helping with lines and uneven skin tone.
2/ Protects from photoreceptor disruption – by filtering the blue light, the mist helps prevent pigmentation and disruption of circadian rhythms.
4/ Wear sunscreen
While most sunscreens don’t protect against blue light, they can still help protect your skin from UV damage.
In conclusion, the impact of blue light on our skin is still a topic of debate and further research is needed to fully understand its effects. However, there are steps you can take to minimize your exposure to blue light and protect your skin from potential damage. By limiting your screen time, using blue light filters, wearing sunscreen, and using skincare products with antioxidants, you can help keep your skin looking its best.
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