All of us spend more than half our days in front of a computer or smartphone. Working from home has us spending hours and hours in front of our screens. From long online classes to attending virtual meetings and even binge-watching our favourite TV show for hours, we just can't seem to let go. It exposes us to the harmful blue light emitted through the screens. Blue light or high-energy visible (HEV) light is a part of the visible light spectrum that is emitted by all kinds of electronic devices, especially fluorescent lights, television, laptop, gaming and mobile screens. Prolonged exposure to the blue light emitted from your computer screen and mobile phones can damage the skin leading to premature ageing and pigmentation. While we cannot give up any digital screens, as the world practically thrives on them now, there are a few things we could do to make sure our skin's protected
How Is Blue Light Damaging Your Skin?
Your screens can actually be causing harm to the skin on your hands and face. Excessive exposure to blue light can be similar to the sun's UVA rays and can leave long term side effects on our skin. But these effects aren't always noticeable right away. It's like sun exposure, the damage is cumulative. It can encourage the formation of free radicals that break down collagen and cause inflammation which can lead to redness, dark spots and wrinkles. Especially for Indian skin tones, blue light can also cause hyperpigmentation. This type of light can penetrate all the way to our dermis, where our collagen and elastin live, leading to loss of firmness and an increase in visible lines as a result.
How To Protect Your Skin From Blue Light Damage?
Antioxidants
Topical antioxidants are an absolute must in everyone's skincare regime. It neutralises oxidative stress that is caused by light. You can try antioxidant-rich serums to help improve dull complexion, dryness and fine lines by pushing away free radicals. Vitamin C is a great antioxidant and is good to use as a serum. You could be doing everything in your power to protect your skin from the outside, but the foods that you consume also play a major role. By eating foods that are rich in antioxidants, we give our skin the strength it needs to combat UV rays, blue light, and more.
SPF Helps
The blue light emitted from the screen is as harmful as the UV rays emitted from the sun. Therefore, you should use sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF while sitting and working in front of the screen for a longer period. Don't forget to apply it every hour on your face.
Water-Based Moisturiser
The heat from a computer causes skin dryness so you need to replenish the moisture quotient of your skin. You can also keep applying a moisturiser to your face to keep it nourished. A water-based moisturiser will hydrate your skin better. Those skin care products rich in hyaluronic acid is great for hydrating your skin and combating signs of blue light exposure.
Wash Your Face
After spending long hours in front of the screen, keep washing your face to get rid of any radicles. If you use a computer for long hours, take frequent breaks to reduce the strain on your eyes. However, use a gentle cleanser that doesn't rip off your face and make sure to not keep using the cleanser too frequently.
Under Eye Cream
Just like blue light compromises our beauty sleep, it also causes strain to our eyes. In order to prevent wrinkles around your eyes, you should apply an under-eye gel. It will soothe the delicate skin under your eyes and keep you relieved from fine lines and wrinkles.
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