If there’s one thing we all have in common it’s a little too much screen time. From our laptops to our smartphones to Netflix marathons on the couch, it’s no secret we all spend a large chunk of our time exposed to blue light.
In fact, a 2019 study determined that the average person spends over 3 hours per day on their phones alone. We are sure you know how easily time can fly by as you scroll your various social media feeds, no matter your age!
In this article, we want to delve a little bit deeper into the possible impact blue light may have on your skin so you can make appropriate changes if necessary. Your skin is worth more than another scroll through Instagram or Facebook!
What is blue light?
Our main source of blue light is the sun, but we are also exposed to an adequate amount of blue light via our screens and even our indoor lighting.
To explain it in more scientific terms, blue light “part of the spectrum of visible light, is a high-energy, short-wavelength light (not to be confused with UVA or UVB rays)”, says Shari Marchbein, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at New York University.
There is a good side to blue light though, as it may help to regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle and can improve memory and lift your spirits. We all know that feeling you get from soaking up some sunshine after not seeing the sun for days or even weeks at a time! Blue light certainly has a direct impact on our mood and emotions.
Blue light and your skin
You may be wondering about the effect blue light can have on your skin.
If you’re limiting screen time you aren’t causing too much damage. However, if you're spending a significant amount of time working at your computer and on your devices, then you may be putting your skin at risk.
Dr. Murad, a revered dermatologist explains, “Spending four eight-hour workdays in front of a computer exposes you to the same amount of energy as 20 minutes in the midday sun. To put this in perspective, "seven minutes of sun exposure at 1 pm is powerful enough to induce immediate tanning."
Exposure to blue light may induce oxidative stress, increasing your risk of skin damage and skin aging.
As dermatologist, Dr. Stefanie Williams explains, “Blue light has the ability to penetrate deeper into the skin compared with both UVA and UVB light. Blue light can penetrate all the way to our dermis, where our collagen and elastin live.” This can decrease firmness in the skin contributing to sagging skin and wrinkles.
Your best defense
Blue light blocker
You can actually get a blue shield light blocker to place over your screen that will ensure your entire face is protected, not only your eyes, as is the case with blue light blocking glasses.
Most smart devices also have a “night shift mode” that favors warm, yellow light in place of blue light. I recommend using this setting all day long to stay protected.
SPF and antioxidants
Naturally, SPF is important every day, even when you are indoors.
Antioxidants are also your skin’s best defense against free radical exposure and every one of our formulas contain signature antioxidants to keep your skin protected.
Get your hands on our top actives with our Best and Brightest Collection.
Have questions? We're here to help! Email us at hello@kateryanskincare.com
If you enjoyed this post, you may find these interesting as well:
- How Can I Combat The Negative Stress Effects on Skin?
- 8 of The Most Powerful Antioxidants To Have In Your Skincare Routine
