The Dangers of Screens’ “Blue Light” on Your Skin
A question I am often asked is whether exposure to the light from screen devices can damage our skin in the same way as the sun, and if we should be protecting it by applying an SPF compound as part of our daily skincare routines. Many voices within the beauty industry claim that the high-energy visible (HEV) or “blue light” emitted by our devices could age our skin just like the sun. As a scientist, my answer to this question is always determined by the scientific evidence.
Understanding Sunlight and Its Effects
To understand the potential impact of blue light, we should begin by examining the sun itself. The sun emits many different rays of varying wavelengths, including visible light (300-700 nm), ultraviolet (UV) rays (100-400 nm), and infrared (IR) rays (780 nm – 1 mm). Wavelength, energy, and intensity are crucial factors, as the amount of radiation and exposure will ultimately determine their effects.
Visible Light: Allows us to see our surroundings.
IR Radiation: Increases the temperature of objects it radiates.
UV Radiation: With higher frequency and energy, UV rays can penetrate deep into the skin, damaging tissue, collagen, and cells, which can lead to irreversible damage.
To protect our skin from the harmful effects of the sun, we use SPF to block UV rays. Melanin, our skin’s natural barrier, is not sufficient alone to prevent UV damage. Both organic (chemical) and inorganic (mineral) SPFs play a role in this protection:
Organic SPF: Carbon-based compounds that absorb UV light, but may produce free radicals, potentially damaging skin structures.
Inorganic SPF: Creates a physical barrier on the skin, blocking UV rays. Ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide might also absorb radiation, but their exact mechanisms and effects are less understood.
While SPFs protect against UV rays, they do not necessarily benefit the health of the skin and can potentially be damaging. Alternatives include minimizing sun exposure or using physical barriers like hats and sunglasses.
Blue Light from Screens
Like the sun, screen devices emit various wavelengths of light, primarily in the visible range, including the so-called “blue light” (400 to 455 nm). Unlike UV light, blue light is not likely to penetrate the skin deeply. Here’s what we know:
Blue Light and Skin: There is no significant evidence suggesting that blue light from screens damages the skin or causes tanning, as the intensity is too low to have long-term effects.
Eye Health: Blue light can harm your eyes with prolonged exposure, affecting vision and potentially contributing to digital eye strain.
Mental Health: Excessive screen time can impact mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and poor sleep—factors that can indirectly affect skin health by promoting premature aging and other skin issues.
The Marketing Hype
During the COVID-19 lockdowns, increased screen time raised concerns, yet there was no widespread recommendation to use SPF while watching TV. The beauty industry has quickly seized the marketing opportunity to promote products targeting blue light exposure, but it’s essential to rely on scientific evidence rather than marketing claims.
While blue light from screens is unlikely to damage your skin as UV rays do, it is essential to be mindful of its effects on your eyes and mental health. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle with limited screen time, good sleep, and stress management is crucial for overall well-being and healthy skin.