Over the past few years, blue light has become a buzzword in the world of eye health. With the increasing use of digital devices, concerns have been raised about the impact of blue light on our eyes. As a result, companies selling blue light blocking lenses have emerged, making several claims about the benefits of wearing these lenses. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support these claims.
In this blog post, we aim to debunk the hype around blue light lenses, and provide you with a summary of the current research on blue light and its impact on eye health.
What is Blue Light?
Before we dive into the research, let's understand what blue light is. Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum, and it has a shorter wavelength than other colors of light. Blue light is found in sunlight, but we are exposed to higher levels of blue light through the use of digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers.
How Does Blue Light Affect Eye Health?
There is a growing concern about the impact of blue light on eye health. Studies show that blue light can penetrate the eye and reach the retina. Overexposure to blue light has been linked to digital eye strain, which includes symptoms such as headache, eyestrain, dry eyes, and blurry vision.
However, it's important to note that the amount of blue light emitted by digital devices is relatively low compared to the amount of blue light emitted by the sun. Also, the eye has natural filters that protect the retina from blue light, and the lens of the eye also reduces the amount of blue light that reaches the retina.
Benefits of Blue Light Blocking Lenses
Companies that sell blue light blocking lenses claim that these lenses can help reduce the symptoms of digital eye strain. These lenses have a yellow or orange tint, which is supposed to filter out blue light.
However, there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of these lenses. A recent study published in the American Academy of Ophthalmology found that blue light blocking lenses did not improve sleep, eyestrain, or headache symptoms in healthy young adults.
Furthermore, the American Academy of Ophthalmology states that blue light blocking lenses are not necessary for most people, as the body's natural filters and the lens of the eye are effective in reducing the amount of blue light that reaches the retina.
Conclusion
In summary, while concerns about blue light and its impact on eye health are valid, the hype around blue light blocking lenses is not supported by scientific evidence. Most people do not need to invest in blue light blocking lenses, as the natural filters in the eye are effective in reducing blue light exposure.
However, if you experience symptoms of digital eye strain, there are other solutions that can help, such as taking breaks from digital devices, adjusting the lighting in your environment, and using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away).
In conclusion, if you do decide to invest in blue light blocking lenses, make sure to do your research and purchase from a reputable company. And always remember, the best way to protect your eyes is to practice good eye hygiene and take breaks from digital devices.