The Use of Blue Light
Questions about ‘blue light’ from our patients are becoming more common, in part thanks to recent products promising to limit as well as reduce damaging blue light, and in part due to increased use of screens and light sources, which means we are exposed to more blue light than in the past when we were not all attached to our digital devices and lightbulbs were typically tungsten yellow. So, do these ‘blue blocking’ products really need to be purchased?
To begin, what exactly is blue light?
Many wavelengths of visible color are present in both natural and artificial light. Blue light is at the far end of the spectrum, ranging from 400 to 525nm.
Is blue light harmful to the eyes?
Throughout animal studies, researchers discovered a link between blue light as well as visible light as well as retinal damage. However, researches on humans could only estimate blue light damage because eyes are exposed to light across the spectrum in the normal course of daily life.
Is blue light becoming a bigger problem?
Our lighting habits are changing dramatically: in the last decade, we’ve seen an increase in the use of LED (light-emitting diode) as well as fluorescent lighting, and also light source LEDs in backlit displays of tablets, smartphones, and computers. These light sources emit significantly more blue light than traditional incandescent light bulbs. Regardless, they emit thousands of times less blue light than natural daylight. Despite the fact that these devices are well within international safety limits, research has shown that prolonged exposure to visible blue light can cause eye strain and fatigue. It may also exacerbate sleep disorders.
Are blue light filtering lenses good for your health?
Although there may be clinical situations in which a blue light filtering IOL is recommended to prevent as well as slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration, there is currently insufficient evidence to support this.
Is there any evidence to support the use of blue light filters on spectacle lenses?
Blue light filters may reduce eye fatigue, improve sleep, or preserve macular function in some cases, but because there is limited scientific evidence, we cannot guarantee beneficial results. Patients with these issues, on the other hand, may request these lenses to see if they help them, and they will, of course, be able to see just as clearly with these lenses as with unfiltered lenses.
Top Specs uses which Blue Light Filtering Products?
BlueControl from Hoya is a coating designed to reduce eye strain caused by excessive exposure to blue light emitted by digital devices. It is suitable for most spectacle lenses, including single vision, varifocal, and bifocals. BlueControl absorbs blue light while also being scratch resistant, water, grease, and dirt repellent. To improve your vision, the coating also provides increased contrast, clarity, and color perception.
If you have any questions, please contact us and one of our dispensing opticians will be happy to assist you.