You’ve read about our obsession with sun protection before. We’ve blogged about it a ton here and here! Did you know that in addition to protecting our skin from sun exposure, we also need to think about how the blue light from our favorite tech gadgets (yes- the light emitted from phones, tablets, computers, etc.) impacts our skin?
Recent studies have found that blue light can have potential damaging effects on your skin. That blue light emitted from your TV, computer and phone is called high-energy visible light (HEV) and can cause your skin to react in ways that you may not be so crazy about. The effects are not as detrimental as those coming from natural sunlight, like DNA mutations from UV rays that cause skin cancer, but they are still unpleasant none the less.
What are the potential effects of chronic blue light exposure?
Currently, the main concern is around hyperpigmentation and premature aging.
How can we prevent it?
One option is to occasionally unplug from your tech. Not only is it a good option for your skin, but for your mental health too! We know this option is not always realistic… it can be hard to put our devices down sometimes, especially when these are the tools that we use for work and entertainment. So, another step to take towards protection can be the same way you protect your skin from the sun – sunscreen!
We recommend applying a layer of this stuff every day prior to any make up. If you use a foundation that also contains an SPF, even better!
Even though research on the harmful effects of blue light is still developing, we always like to air on the side of caution. So protect your skin and don’t forget to lather on that sunscreen!
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