Living in the digital age means more blue light exposure than ever. From computers to tablets to phones, our screen time has increased rapidly, especially over the past few years. While we know the effects overexposure to blue light has on our sleep cycle, it’s becoming apparent that blue light has an effect on the skin as well.

Studies have shown that blue light can cause environmental stress to the skin as well as photoaging. Additionally, changes in the skin have been recorded such as pigment change and the breakdown of collagen. So, how do we prevent damage from blue light? First, let’s address what blue light is.

What is Blue Light?

On the visible electromagnetic spectrum, blue light is the highest energy light. This means the electromagnetic waves emitted by blue light are some of the shortest, similar to UV rays, which we know are some of the most harmful. Blue light originally only had one source, the sun.

Currently, our bodies are exposed to blue light for our jobs, entertainment, and when socializing from a distance. As the sun goes down the natural reduction in blue light is meant to trigger sleepiness and signal our bodies that it’s time for bed. Now, we’re exposed to blue light right until the last minute before we go to sleep.

While we know the adverse effects of blue light on our circadian rhythm, how does this overexposure translate to our skin?

How Does Blue Light Effect Your Skin?

While we don’t know the full effects of blue light on the skin yet, we’re beginning to see changes due to the prolonged exposure, particularly in millennials and Gen Z.  Emerging studies show blue light can generate reactive oxygen species, which can cause cell death.

Cell death can speed up the aging process and break down two major anti-aging components, collagen and elastin. There is even evidence that blue light can cause pigment changes such as age spots and uneven skin tone. While studies are still finding out what kind of damage can come from blue light, it’s safe to say that protecting your skin is a good call.

How Many Hours a Day are We Subjected to Blue Light?

The average American spends 7 hours and 15 minutes in front of a screen every day. Since many careers are digitally focused, it’s almost impossible to avoid blue light during the workweek, not to mention binge-watching TV and social media scrolling on the weekends.

We’re all exposed to blue light more than ever before and the solution of removing all blue light-emitting devices from our lives is impractical at best. But don’t worry, you don’t have to quit your job to become a state park ranger or stop watching cute cat videos before bed. There are other ways to reduce blue light overexposure and it might be easier than you think.

What Can We Do to Avoid the Negative Effects?

• Invest in Blue Light Blocking Screen Protectors

While blue light glasses are all the rage right now, they only supply protection to your eyes. While protecting our eyes is a great start (especially for our circadian rhythm) our skin isn’t completely covered with this kind of protection. Screen protectors filter out the blue light as its emitted, saving your skin and your eyes at the same time.

• Use Dark Mode on Your Device   

Most devices offer dark or night mode which greatly reduces the rays of blue light. While some prefer brighter screens, switching over in the evening can help with better sleep and offer partial protection from skin damage. Switching over full-time is your best bet, every little change can make a difference.

• Use Sunscreen Daily

In the age of skin health, many skincare products and foundations are infused with sunscreen. This is great for your skin to protect you from the sun and from blue light, just make sure either Zinc Oxide or Iron Oxide is on the ingredients list. These are the only two ingredients that protect specifically against blue light and UV rays.

• Implement Skincare with Blue Light Protection

Skincare is often our first line of defense when it comes to protecting our skin from environmental stressors, pollutants, and electromagnetic waves emitted from blue light. To ensure your skin is fully protected, incorporate the Audrose Activator and Serum Concentrate into your daily routine.

The Audrose Activator uses the protective qualities of Red Algae, and the Serum Concentrate offers protection through Niacinamide. Used together these products supply a powerhouse of blue light protection and revitalization. In addition, both products contain antioxidant actives that neutralize the effects of free radicals. These actives include vitamin C, Green Walnut Extract, Hibiscus Extract, and Honeysuckle Flower Extract.

The Takeaway

As we learn more about the effects of blue light on our skin, studies are showing evidence that we need to start protecting our skin now rather than later. Thankfully, there are solutions available you can implement in no time at all.

Order the Audrose Serum Concentrate and Activator at Audrosebeauty.com to start protecting your skin from blue light today!