We live glued to our phones, laptops, tablets, and even the microwave (especially when it’s heating up something delicious, obviously). But while we scroll through memes or work in “full focus” mode, the blue light from these devices is quietly leaving its mark on our skin. And no, it’s not a fingerprint – it’s a mark of premature aging, dark spots, and tired-looking skin. Thanks, technology! 🙄
Blue light, also known as high-energy visible (HEV) light, can actually penetrate deeper into the skin than UV rays. Yes, you read that right. While it doesn’t burn like the sun and is technically not classified as UV radiation, over time it can cause a considerable amount of oxidative stress, weaken the skin barrier, mess with your pigmentation, and contribute to premature ageing. Check out this article for a more in-depth look at the differences between UVA, UVB, and HEV rays.
So, what can we do? Turning everything off and moving to a cabin in the woods isn’t exactly realistic (plus, no Wi-Fi). But there are effective ways to protect your skin from harmful HEV rays:
- Wearing sunscreen with blue light filters
- Add antioxidants to your skincare routine (think of vitamin C or niacinamide as your skin’s personal bodyguards)
- Consider blue light filtering glasses for extra protection while spending extended time on your laptop or phone
- Give your eyes and skin a break every now and then, even if it’s just to stare out the window and remember the sky still exists
The goal here isn’t panic, it’s awareness. If your skin could talk, it would probably ask for a good antioxidant cream and a little time offline. Don’t take it personally, but DO take it seriously!
At Healing Hands, our expert estheticians can give you tips and share product recommendations on how best to protect your skin from the damage caused by extended exposure to your electronic devices. Book with us today.