Blue light blocking lenses are the “IN” thing now in the lens market. In this article, I will explain what is blue light, the advantages and disadvantages of having a blue light filter lens.
Where does blue light come from?
Blue light is found everywhere.Sunlight is the main source of blue light. Most people are aware that sunlight contains visible light rays and also invisible light e.g. Ultraviolet light that can tan or burn the skin. Visible light consists of 7 colours namely; Violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange and red. Out of the 7 colours, blue light rays with the shortest wavelengths (and highest energy) in the visible light spectrum are the MOST DAMAGING to our ocular health.
There are also many man-made, indoor sources of blue light, including fluorescent and LED lighting and flat-screen televisions. Digital devices like I-pad, smartphones, computers also emit significant amounts of blue light.
Disadvantages of Blue Light
Many studies suggest that continued exposure to blue light over time could lead to retinal cells damage. This can induce macular degeneration & glaucoma which can cause permanent vision loss.
Other minor symptoms from prolong exposure to blue light includes eye strain, blurred vision, headaches, and trouble sleeping.
Advantages of blue light
Not all blue light is bad. We cannot block all the blue light. Some blue light exposure is essential for good health. Research has shown that blue light boosts alertness, helps memory and cognitive function and elevates mood.
Blue light is also very important in regulating circadian rhythm — the body's natural wakefulness and sleep cycle. Exposure to blue light during daytime hours helps maintain a healthful circadian rhythm.
But too much blue light late at night (reading a novel on a tablet computer or e-reader at bedtime, for example) can disrupt this cycle, potentially causing sleepless nights and daytime fatigue.
Do we need blue blocking lenses?
Definitely yes. We live in a digital world and extended screen time is quickly becoming the norm in our everyday lives so blue blocking lenses is an important protection feature in our glasses. But we also need to cultivate a good reading habit by reducing blue light exposure with regular breaks when using digital devices.
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