How Does Blue Light Affect Skin?

We all know that damage from light, specifically sunlight, can impact our ability to achieve and maintain healthy skin. But did you know that the light from your phone and other electronics could also be affecting your skin?

What is blue light?

Blue light is also known as high-energy-visible (HEV) light—it’s a color in the visible light spectrum that can be seen by the human eye. Blue light has a short wavelength and, in general, shorter wavelengths produce higher amounts of energy.

We are exposed to blue light on a constant basis. Sunlight is the largest source of blue light emission, but you can also find it in your electronic devices. Computers, laptops, smartphone, tablets and televisions all emit blue light.  

Is blue light bad for your skin?

The concern of blue light damaging the skin comes from the fact that we are constantly exposed to screens, from work to at home, or are constantly under LED lightbulbs that also increase our exposure. Eye health experts have already expressed concerns over this constant exposure, as our eyes are not structured to filter out blue light and some damage can be caused in the long run.

Similar concerns have arisen regarding the correlation between our skin’s health and our exposure to blue light. Most worries about premature signs of skin aging and skin cancer have been associated with UVA and UVB rays, but blue light could be another culprit damaging your skin. Like sun exposure, the effects aren’t always noticeable right away—damage can accumulate over time. Some effects from blue light exposure can include hyperpigmentation, redness, and inflammation.

Protect your skin from blue light

ZO® Skin Health’s sun protection portfolio offers scientifically superior sunscreens formulated with the broadest most comprehensive range of sun protection available. Both chemical and physical sunscreens contain advanced Triple-Spectrum Protection® against UVA/UVB and I-RA rays. ZO® has also incorporated melanin, a novel formulation of melanin, that is specifically designed to absorb harmful blue light.

Make sure to apply your sunscreen of choice daily and re-apply every few hours to ensure your skin is protected against light damage all day.