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What Do Blue Light Glasses Do?

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At Trinity Hills Eyecare, we know that whether for work, entertainment, or communication, people spend hours staring at computers, smartphones, and tablets. This increased reliance on digital devices has amplified exposure to blue light, sparking questions about its potential effects on health. One solution that has gained popularity is blue light glasses. This article explores what blue light glasses are, what they do, and how they might be used effectively.

What Is Blue Light?

Blue light is a high-energy visible (HEV) light with wavelengths between 400 and 450 nanometers. It is naturally emitted by the sun and is also produced by artificial sources, including LED lights, computer screens, televisions, and smartphones.

Natural exposure to blue light during the day can have benefits, such as boosting alertness and helping regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. However, concerns arise from prolonged exposure to artificial blue light, particularly during evening hours, as it may contribute to digital eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns.

Purpose of Blue Light Glasses

Blue light glasses are designed with lenses that filter or block blue light. Their main purpose is to reduce the potential negative effects of prolonged exposure to artificial blue light. Here are two key ways they are believed to help:

1. Reducing Digital Eye Strain

Spending long hours in front of screens can lead to symptoms collectively known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. These symptoms may include:

  • Dry, irritated eyes
  • Blurred vision
  • Headaches
  • Difficulty focusing

Some individuals find that wearing blue light glasses helps alleviate these discomforts. The lenses filter a portion of the blue light, which may reduce glare and improve viewing comfort. However, it’s worth noting that scientific studies on the effectiveness of blue light glasses in preventing or reducing digital eye strain have produced mixed results.

2. Supporting Better Sleep

Blue light has a direct impact on melatonin production, a hormone that regulates sleep. Exposure to artificial blue light, especially in the evening, can suppress melatonin production, potentially leading to difficulty falling asleep or reduced sleep quality. Blue light glasses are often marketed as a tool to help reduce this effect, especially when used during evening screen time. Some users report improved sleep patterns after wearing blue light glasses in the hours leading up to bedtime.

How Effective Are Blue Light Glasses?

Person wearing glasses while using a tablet.

The effectiveness of blue light glasses is a topic of ongoing discussion. While anecdotal evidence from users suggests they can be helpful, scientific studies are more cautious in their conclusions. The American Academy of Ophthalmology, for instance, states that there is insufficient evidence to recommend special eyewear for computer use. Instead, they attribute most digital eye strain symptoms to screen habits, such as infrequent blinking or poor ergonomics, rather than blue light exposure alone.

Despite this, many users report positive experiences with blue light glasses, particularly for comfort during extended screen use and improved sleep quality. Individual responses may vary, so personal experimentation can be a useful approach.

Alternative Methods to Manage Blue Light Exposure

In addition to using blue light glasses, there are several other strategies to help manage blue light exposure and its effects:

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This practice helps relax the eye muscles and may reduce symptoms of digital eye strain.

2. Adjust Device Settings

Most devices offer built-in blue light filtering modes, such as “Night Shift” or “Blue Light Filter.” These settings adjust the screen’s color temperature, reducing blue light emission during the evening.

3. Use Proper Lighting

Working in a well-lit environment can help minimize screen glare and reduce eye strain. Avoid positioning screens in direct sunlight or under harsh artificial lighting.

4. Limit Screen Time

Whenever possible, reduce the amount of time spent in front of screens, particularly in the evening. Incorporating non-screen-based activities into your routine can provide a break for your eyes and promote overall well-being.

Can I Wear Blue Light Glasses All the Time?

Blue light glasses are generally safe to wear throughout the day. However, their use should align with individual needs and preferences. Here’s what to consider:

Daytime Use

Wearing blue light glasses during the day is unlikely to cause harm. Many people choose to wear them only during extended screen time or work hours. If you spend a significant portion of your day using digital devices, wearing blue light glasses may offer comfort by reducing glare and filtering out blue light.

Evening Use

For individuals concerned about the impact of blue light on sleep, wearing these glasses in the hours leading up to bedtime can be a practical choice. Reducing blue light exposure during this time may help support natural melatonin production and improve sleep quality.

Continuous Use

While there’s no harm in wearing blue light glasses continuously, they may not be necessary when engaging in activities that do not involve significant blue light exposure, such as reading physical books or spending time outdoors during the day. Personal preference plays a key role in deciding when and how often to use them.

Consulting an Eyecare Professional

Before purchasing blue light glasses, it’s helpful to seek guidance from an eyecare professional. They can assess your visual needs and recommend appropriate solutions. In some cases, symptoms attributed to blue light may be linked to other vision issues, such as uncorrected refractive errors or dry eye syndrome. Addressing the root cause of these symptoms can lead to more effective relief.

Take Control of Your Eyecare

Blue light glasses have become a popular tool for managing digital eye strain and improving sleep quality. While the scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is mixed, many individuals report significant benefits from their use. These glasses can be part of a broader strategy to manage screen time and maintain eye comfort. For personalized advice, visit Trinity Hills Eyecare to consult with an eyecare professional who can help determine an approach for your unique needs. 

Written by Karen Pinchak

Born and raised in Calgary, Dr. Pinchak completed her Bachelor of Science in biology at the University of Calgary. She attended the University of Waterloo where she obtained her Doctor of Optometry degree with honours in 2009. Dr. Pinchak completed her program externships in Baltimore, MD; Kingston, Jamaica; Vernon, BC and at home in Calgary. She practices full scope optometry with a focus on family eyecare, ocular disease and dry eye. Dr. Pinchak is always excited to try out the latest technology in optometry and expand her knowledge in the field especially when it involves traveling to conferences in Scotland, Las Vegas, Ottawa and Banff.
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