What is blue light?
This type of light is part of the visible light spectrum between wavelengths of 400 nanometers (nm) to 500 nm. During the daytime, blue light is useful for increasing attention span and reaction time. It also influences mood. The problem is when we are exposed to blue light at night, it inhibits melatonin, the hormone responsible for making you sleepy. In this way, it affects the body’s natural sleep and wake cycle. Sunlight is the primary source of blue light. However, LED lights, fluorescent lights, electronic devices, TVs, and computer screens can also emit it.
It might sound silly to ask can sunscreen protect against blue light, but studies have shown that blue light has both perks and disadvantages to the skin. A study has shown that low energy and low exposure times to high energy visible light (HEV), or blue light, prevent skin diseases. Its harms lie in longer exposure time – it causes damage to DNA, the eyes, skin barrier and can even cause cell and tissue death and photoaging.
What are its effects?
The most notable effect of blue light is the generation of non-enzymatic nitric oxide radicals (free radicals) and reactive oxygen species. Many factors contribute to skin aging: extreme physical or psychological stress, alcohol, improper nutrition and pollution. But ultraviolet radiation makes up 80% of these environmental factors. In fact, it is the most crucial factor in skin cancer and aging.
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