Scientists debate
In recent years, there has been increasing concern about the potential harm of blue light from electronic devices such as smartphones and computers. But what exactly is blue light and can skincare products really protect our skin from blue light damage?
What is Blue Light?
Blue light is a high-energy, short-wavelength light that is emitted by electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, and TVs, as well as natural sources such as the sun. While blue light is an essential part of the visible light spectrum, it is also a form of high-energy visible (HEV) light that can penetrate deeper into the skin than UV light.
Blue Light and Skin Damage
Recent studies have shown that blue light can have a detrimental effect on the skin, contributing to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and other skin concerns. Blue light can penetrate deeper into the skin than UV light, reaching the dermal layer where collagen and elastin are produced. Prolonged exposure to blue light can cause oxidative stress and damage to these important skin components, leading to premature aging and other skin concerns.
Can Skincare Products Protect Against Blue Light Damage?
There is an ongoing debate among experts regarding whether blue light skincare is a scam or not. Some argue that the effects of blue light on the skin are still not fully understood and that claims made by skincare companies regarding the protective effects of their products may be exaggerated or unsupported by scientific evidence.
“I think it is just a marketing thing. Brands are trying to sell their product, and this is something different that they can hang their hat on for now.” – dermatologist Glynis Ablon, MD.
While there is still much research needed in this area, some studies have suggested that certain skincare ingredients can help protect against UV damage. Antioxidants such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and ferulic acid have been shown to help neutralize the free radicals that can be generated by light exposure, thus reducing oxidative stress and damage to the skin. Other ingredients that may help protect against light damage include niacinamide, which has been shown to improve the skin’s barrier function and reduce hyperpigmentation, and carotenoids such as lycopene, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. If you use your skincare products against the sun’s UV rays, you can also better protect your skin against blue light. So specific blue light-protecting ingredients are exaggerated.
It’s important to note that while skincare products may offer some protection against blue light damage, they should not be relied upon as the sole means of protection. Limiting screen time, using blue light filters on devices, and wearing sunscreen are also important measures to help protect the skin from blue light damage.
Ultimately, the efficacy of blue light skincare products may depend on the specific formulation and ingredients used, as well as the individual needs and concerns of each consumer. It is important for consumers to carefully evaluate the claims made by skincare companies and consult with a dermatologist or other qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about their skincare regimen. Trust your dermatologist or doctor, not a celebrity.
Conclusion
While blue light from electronic devices and the sun can have a detrimental effect on the skin, there are steps we can take to help protect against its damaging effects. Skincare products containing antioxidants and other protective ingredients may offer some protection against blue light damage, but they should not be relied upon as the sole means of protection. By limiting screen time, using blue light filters on devices, wearing sunscreen, and using skincare products with protective ingredients, we can help keep our skin healthy and looking its best.
Published By Laurette on 04/04/23
Studies
- Schalka et al. (2020)
- Mahmoud et al. (2020)
- Li et al. (2020)
- Leung et al. (2021)
- Khosravinia et al. (2021)