Bluelight from Phones – A SERIOUS CONCERN FOR YOUR SKIN

One of the major reason why blue light has become a concern is that High Energy Visible (HEV) light also known as blue light refers to the blue wavelength on the visible spectrum which is not only found in the sun but to a larger extent from cell phones which we use daily. Cell phones, lap-tops, Television screens, LED lights all emit blue light.

But while using cell phones our facial skin is exposed to blue light from very close and because of this pandemic situation we are spending major amount of time Indoors in front of screens. This has considerably increased our exposure to blue light. Dermatologists all over the world are talking about the effects of blue light exposure on skin.

We are already aware about the damaging effects of blue light on eyes. But it is important that we also understand the damaging effects of blue light on skin. The major contribution of blue light on skin is brown spots on the skin, hyperpigmentation  and dark spots such as melasma and photoaging such as breakdown of collagen which leads to wrinkles and skin laxity.

The most important thing we should be aware about it is that these effects are not immediate. They aren’t noticeable right away, but the damage is cumulative. According to a study published in International Journal of Cosmetic Science; your skin’s regenerative cycle can be completely out of order causing more potential skin damage over a period of time.  There is one more study published in Journal of Investigative Dermatology in 2010, which found that exposing skin to the amount of blue light we get from the sun caused more pigment, redness, and swelling than when the same person’s skin was exposed to comparable levels of UVA rays.

Even now this study is extensively referred by dermatologists worldwide. Thus there is extensive evidence that supports blue light contribution to photo aging, including wrinkles, worsening skin laxity or elasticity as well as brown spots and hyperpigmentation.

Experts say that the more time we spend on devices, the worst the skin might become. There are also increased cases in dermatology where melasma (dark skin patches) is seen on the side of the faces below the ears which dermatologists feel is due to extensive use of phones as they are kept near the face while talking.

It is thus important to use skin care routine which protects you from blue light.

Reference:

1. Journal of Investigative Dermatology
2. International Journal of Cosmetic Science
3. https://www.allure.com/story/blue-light-phone-skin-effects

By Marina Arsiwala

Founder of Cosmosafe Healthcare Pvt Ltd.

Education in Pharmacy and more than 20 years of experience in field of Cosmetology & Dermatology. Closely worked with Research departments across cosmetic and dermatology manufacturing and instrumental in launch of number of skincare and haircare products