Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 3 minutes
Reading time: three minutes.
From the moment we wake up, our eyes are constantly bombarded by the glow of screens – smartphones, computers, tablets, and TVs. Though convenient, it has introduced a new challenge to our well-being: the impact of blue light on our eyes.
In this blog, we will explore when and why you should wear blue light glasses to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of prolonged screen time.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Excessive exposure to blue light can negatively impact your eye health and sleep quality. By wearing blue light glasses and taking regular breaks from screens, you can protect your vision and improve overall well-being.
Understanding Blue Light
Blue light is a part of the visible light spectrum, with wavelengths of light ranging from 400 to 495 nanometers. It’s everywhere, from natural sunlight to artificial light sources like LED lights, electronic devices, and digital screens.
Our bodies rely on sunlight to regulate the production of melatonin—a hormone responsible for controlling our sleep cycles. But excessive exposure to artificial light can disrupt our internal clock and sleep quality.
The Importance of Blue Light Glasses
You can help decrease the negative effects of prolonged exposure to this light by wearing blue light glasses. This exposure can lead to digital eye strain. Symptoms include blurry vision, headaches, and discomfort after long periods of screen time. Here’s how the glasses help:
- Light filter: They contain special light lenses that filter out harmful light and glare on screens.
- Eye health benefits: Reduced light exposure decreases the risk of potential damage to the retina. It can lower the risk of vision loss and conditions like macular degeneration.
- Improved sleep quality: Limiting light exposure can improve your sleep patterns and ensure restful sleep. It will also help your body produce melatonin more effectively.
When to Wear Blue Light Glasses
Knowing when to wear blue light glasses is important for eye health. Here’s when you should use them:
- Extended screen time: Prolonged exposure to digital screens can cause digital eye strain. These glasses can alleviate symptoms by filtering out harmful light.
- Artificial lighting environments: Places with artificial lighting, such as offices or homes with LED bulbs, expose us to higher light levels. Wearing blue light glasses in these settings can protect your eyes from excessive exposure.
- Before bedtime: Exposure to light in the evening can disrupt sleep patterns by interfering with melatonin production. Using blue light glasses a few hours before sleep can help maintain a regular sleep cycle and improve sleep quality.
Tips for Maintaining Eye Health
To further protect your eyes and improve your overall vision care, consider these additional tips:
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away to reduce eye strain.
- Adjust screen settings: Adjust the brightness and contrast on your electronic devices to minimize glare on screens.
- Take regular breaks: Step away from digital screens periodically to give your eyes a rest.
- Get a comprehensive eye exam: Regular check-ups with an eye care professional can help detect and correct refractive errors or other eye issues.
Youth Vision: Your Family Optometrist in Denver, CO
It’s important to take care of your vision and develop healthy screen habits.
If you or your loved ones are exposed to artificial light for prolonged periods, consider visiting one of our vision centers in Denver, Aurora, Thornton and Hampden for a comprehensive eye exam. Our team of experienced optometrists can help you find the right blue light glasses to protect your eyes and promote optimal eye health.
Request an appointment online or call (303) 953-8801
