The ever growing dependence on tech as a whole, albeit via gadgets, social media, mac book pro's and web browsing, the increased use of technology is inevitable for all of us in the present age. In addition, the pandemic has put additional strain on many of us in terms of screen time because of remote working.

In addition to affecting our eyes, the light emitted from the screens has the ability to affect our skin. The blue light emitting from the screens penetrates the deeper layers of the skin, similar to UVA rays from the sun breaking down collagen and elastin, which hasten the ageing and inflammation in the skin cells. The blue light weakens the skin barrier by stimulating the photo-ageing.

Blue light impedes natural melatonin levels, impacts our circadian rhythms, affects sleep patterns, impacts the blood flow, the temperature of the skin, cause transepidermal water loss or dehydration.

Scientific Researches Proves the Harmful effects of Blue Light on Skin

Various scientific researches support the hazardous effects of blue light.

One 2018 study shows that molecular and cellular changes in human skin cells exposed to artificial visible light are similar to that emitted by electronic devices. "The changes observed included mitochondrial damage (mitochondria are our cells' "powerhouses"), and impairment of cell growth, ATP (energy) release and collagen production," explains Dr Stefanie Williams, consultant dermatologist and medical director of Eudelo.

According to a 2010 study, the effects of blue light are more damaging for Black or brown skin tones, with findings showing this skin colour experienced an increased likelihood of hyperpigmentation compared to lighter skins.

Another article on Science Direct states, whatever is the skin type, studies show that 30 hours of exposure to blue light from a smartphone desktop or laptop screen can increase inflammation levels in skin cells by 40 per cent.

To maintain beautiful and healthy skin while preventing the effects of blue light, follow these five helpful tips:

Use Sunscreen – Even at home

We all use sunscreen to protect the skin when outdoors, but what is not common is using sunscreen indoors; however, it can help reduce damage from blue light. I recommend sunscreens with ingredients such as zinc oxide, as this acts as a barrier blocking and absorbing damaging rays. Digital screens emit harmful light, blue with a powerful wavelength that ranges between 380 nm and 400 nm; therefore, using sunscreen even prevent any potential damage.

Use Skin Care Products Packed with Antioxidants

When deciding on skincare products, it is better to pick those packed with antioxidants—cough cough * Beautifully Nourished's Vitamin ACE Moisturiser  - Antioxidant rich blends help in strengthening the skin barrier and aids in reducing the harmful effects of blue light. Antioxidants help protect the skin by slowing down the production of free radicals that damage the skin cells. Products with antioxidants such as ceramides, fatty acids, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide help skin cells recover from oxidative stress and improve skin barriers. Other good barrier-bolstering ingredients include all of which are kind to the skin.

Wear a BB Cream

Physical sunscreens act as a barrier for the skin against blue light; in the same way, products containing light-reflecting pigment, like BB cream, have been proven to reduce harmful effects of blue light by 80 per cent.

Put a Blue Light Screen Protector On It

The closer you are to the screen, the more damaging is the blue light for the skin. It's essential to use a blue light screen protector to reduce the harmful rays from digital devices. The blue light filter sheet provides a barrier on the screen to prevent the emission of blue light.

Switch to Night Mode

It is advised that at night, switch your screen settings to night mode. The night mode disables blue light and enables yellow light instead, which is commonly used to reduce eye strain; however, it is also excellent prevention from skin ageing caused by blue light.

Keep The Phone at Distance

A simple, yet highly effective way is to keep the phone an arm's length away. A fair distance between the screen and the skin helps reduce the damaging effects of blue light. Additionally, trying to mitigate digital devices' usage altogether helps the skin breathe and lighten up as the body relaxes.