We know that the blue light from our TVs, computers and phones can have a negative effect on our sleep. But what are the additional risks associated with blue light and what can we do to prevent them?
We’ve heard about the effects of staring at our electronic devices for hours on end. The blue light emitted by these devices has an impact on our circadian rhythm and disrupts our natural wake and sleep cycle. These disruptions to our sleep cycle can have potentially devastating impacts on our general health and wellbeing.
How can we avoid this? In recent times, the recommendation from scientists has been to put down the phone and switch off the TV an hour or so before bed. This helps reduce the impact blue light has on our melatonin levels – the hormone which induces sleep.
The Risks Associated with Blue Light
Prolonged exposure to blue light can also cause eye strain, stinging eyes and headaches. Blue light or high-energy visible light (HEV) is also 15 times more harmful for the structures of the eye such as the crystalline lens and the retina than the other colours in the spectrum.
Recent research from the University of Toledo has found that there is a potential link between blue light exposure and macular degeneration, as it becomes more widely accepted that blue light can harm our vision by damaging the eye’s retina.
More specifically, the risks associated with blue light have been shown to include:
- Aggravating age-related macular degeneration (ARMD).
- Dazzle and visual discomfort (blurred vision).
- Strobe effect linked to the gradual fluctuating intensity of the light.
- Headaches.
Glasses that block blue light
So what if you work all day around high levels of blue light? During daylight blue light can help to boost attention, reaction times and mood. However, constant exposure could also be doing permanent damage to your eyes.
Working in environments with concentrated fluoro and LED light, or working in front of LED monitors, laptops and iPads all day can all increase the potential of the adverse short and long term health impacts from blue light.
As concerns rise about the true impact of blue light on our health, leading safety brands including Bolle and uvex have developed eyewear solutions to help protect against the harmful effects of blue light.
These eyewear solutions have been developed to reduce the strain on the eyes, both indoors and out, to help relax vision throughout the working day. They can also be worn in the privacy of your home in the hour or two before bed to help get a better night’s rest.
Bolle ESP, Extra Sensory Protection Lens
An innovative lens coating that reduces glare and harmful effects of blue light. This high definition, light brown base lens features a light blue metallic finish. Developed for low light, outdoor use.
Filters 57% of blue light, transmits 64% of visible light, 99.99% of UVA/UVB.
Bolle Twilight Lens
Offers the advantages of ESP with a double anti-fog coating (on both sides of the lenses) to prevent fogging in the most challenging conditions. Designed and used in low-light conditions, it improves contrast. Its light transmission rate is perfect for outdoors, particuarly early morning and late eventing.
Filters 76% of blue light.
Bolle Contrast Lens
A revolutionary coating system, this gradient lens offers improved long term eye comfort. Offering excellent colour recognition while improving depth perception and contract.
Filters over 30% of blue light and 99.99% of UVA/UVB up to 400nm. Developed for indoor use.