In 2019, Canadians were spending around 11 hours per day looking at screens.
Since the pandemic, this has increased as people turned to screens to quell boredom while they were stuck at home. However, a multitude of research suggests extended periods of screen time are damaging to health.
Luckily there's a solution that decreases these harmful effects - if you don't already know about blue light glasses, it's time to learn.
So, what are blue light glasses? Read on to find out.
WHAT IS BLUE LIGHT?
Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum. It has a very short wavelength and high energy. Contrary to what its name suggests, it doesn't look blue.
The primary source of blue light that we're exposed to is from the sun. However, there are smaller, manufactured objects that also emit blue light. The main culprits are cell phones, tablets, fluorescent bulbs, and computer monitors.
Exposure to blue light from the sun helps our brains gear up for the daytime; the same happens with artificial blue light, even if you're looking at screens before bed.
WHAT ARE BLUE LIGHT GLASSES?
Blue light lenses have a filtering effect that reduces the blue light you see by up to 25%. They block wavelengths that are less the 450nm and increase contrast.
These glasses are discreet, appearing just like regular glasses, so it isn't noticeable that you're wearing a specialist pair.
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR EYES FROM BLUE LIGHT
Our eyes are not good at blocking out blue light, and almost all of it passes through the cornea and lens. It then reaches the retina, and prolonged exposure can cause damage.
Blue light can be the culprit of several uncomfortable eye conditions; it's best to limit screen time if you want to protect yourself from eye strain, dry eyes, and headaches.
You should try to limit screen time wherever possible to reduce these effects or wear blue light lenses. When outside, wear sunglasses to prevent excessive exposure. Finally, invest in blue light glasses to wear whenever you're spending time on screens.
WHEN TO WEAR BLUE LIGHT GLASSES
First of all, you should wear these glasses whenever you're looking at a screen for more than a few minutes. This will significantly reduce any damage that the blue light may cause.
Additionally, blue light is particularly bad for disrupting the circadian rhythm.
When your brain processes blue light, it's tricked into believing it's daytime. So always use blue light glasses if you need to be on your phone before bed. Furthermore, most phones have a 'night mode' option that'll naturally reduce blue light as well.
GET BLUE LIGHT GLASSES
If you're conscious of how much time you're spending looking at screens, or experiencing digital eye strain, it's time to do something about it.
Try setting yourself a daily maximum screen time, and invest in blue light glasses to protect your eyes.
Are you ready to order your first pair of blue light glasses? At Bellemore Optometry and Eyes on Tecumseh, we have a wide selection of frames for blue light lenses. Visit our locations in Windsor and Tecumseh today or contact us for an appointment.