There couldn’t be anything more ordinary than blue light. It’s the reason the sky looks blue – because it bounces off the molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere more readily than the rest of the visible light spectrum. The AAO recommends that you take the steps below to reduce digital eyestrain. Practice the 20/20/20 strategy

But just as not having enough daytime light can lower our sleep prospects, so can too much blue light in the evening. This is because our circadian system, which evolved when we lived largely outside with no electricity, is regulated by light cues received by our eyes. Blue light is essential for regulating the circadian rhythm, because it stimulates melanopsin receptors in the eye. [20] This suppresses daytime melatonin, enabling wakefulness. Working in blue-free light (aka yellow light) for long periods of time disrupts circadian patterns because there is no melatonin suppression during the day, and reduced melatonin rebound at night. Sunlight is the main source of blue light, and being outdoors during daylight is where we get most of our exposure to it. But there are many other sources of blue light — including LED lighting and flat-panel screens.

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A member of our medical expert team provides a final review of the content and sources cited for every guide, article, and product review concerning medical- and health-related topics. Inaccurate or unverifiable information will be removed prior to publication. Directed by Gilles Bannier (Trigger Point, Tin Star, Spiral) and inspired by extensive research and interviews, Blue Lights is an authentic, gripping and darkly funny drama about ordinary people doing an extraordinary job in a society that could spiral out of control at any moment. Maytin EV, et al. (2018). Blue light versus red light for photodynamic therapy of basal cell carcinoma in patients with Gorlin syndrome: A bilaterally controlled comparison study. Rays on the blue end of the visible light spectrum have short wavelengths and high energy. Those on the red end of the spectrum have long wavelengths and less energy.

Tähkämö L, Partonen T, Pesonen A-K. Systematic Review of Light Exposure Impact on Human Circadian Rhythm. Chronobiology International . February 2019. Blue light is a portion of the visible light spectrum that can influence alertness, hormone production, and sleep cycles. This wavelength of light is emitted by LED and fluorescent lights, as well as many electronic devices. Squinting at screens for long periods isn’t recommended for the overall health of your eyes. If you wear prescription eyeglasses to correct your vision, make sure you’re wearing a prescription intended for the distance between your eyes and your screen — ideally an arm’s length away. Most glasses are formulated for longer distances. Adjust the blue light on your screenSit an arm’s length (about 25 inches) away from the computer screen, and position the screen so you’re looking slightly downward. Position Statement on the Blue Light Hazard (April 23, 2019) | CIE". www.cie.co.at . Retrieved 2019-07-24. A 2015 review has shown that blue light kills acne-causing bacteria and lowers inflammation in acne breakouts. One important note: If you’re going to try at-home blue light devices, make sure you choose one approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Help clear some skin conditions LaMotte, Sandee (2023-08-17). "Blue-light glasses don't help with eye strain, major study says". CNN . Retrieved 2023-08-24.