The global adoption of smartphones saw a massive leap, with an addition of 268 million new users from 2021 to 2022. This pushed the worldwide tally of smartphone users from an impressive 6.38 billion in 2021 to a staggering 6.65 billion in 2022.
Moreover, this daily screen time exposes all smartphone users to blue light. While it’s a natural part of the spectrum, too much blue light from screens may cause strain to our eyes, sometimes leading to dry eyes and sleep disruptions.
Today, there’s a growing trend of wearing blue light-blocking glasses to combat this. With their special lenses, these glasses aim to reduce eye strain and promote better sleep by blocking a significant amount of blue light emitted from computer screens and other digital devices.
However, are they effective? In this article, you’ll learn the effectiveness of blue light blocking glasses and so much more. Let’s get started.
The Basics of Blue Light and Its Impact
Blue light is a color in the visible light spectrum that human eyes can see. It’s everywhere around us; the sun, which is the primary source of blue light, paints the sky in its hue. The digital devices we use daily, such as computer screens, smartphones, and TVs, also emit this light.
Now, blue light itself isn’t bad. In fact, exposure to it during daylight hours can help maintain a healthy sleep-wake cycle. Naturally, it boosts alertness, mood, and cognitive function. Nevertheless, the problem arises when we get too much blue light exposure, especially from screens close to our faces.
Have you noticed your eyes feeling tired after hours in front of the computer screen? That’s digital eye strain, often caused by excessive blue light. Prolonged screen time can result in more than just eye strain. It may cause dry eyes, headaches and even disrupt your sleep cycle.
This is where blue light-blocking glasses come into play. They have special lenses that filter out a significant part of the blue light emitted by screens. Whether it’s prescription lenses or non-prescription, these glasses aim to reduce eye strain and help you sleep better.
Though, just wearing these glasses might not be the complete solution. It’s important to remember to take regular breaks from the screen, adjust the brightness and contrast, and ensure a comfortable distance from the screen. After all, eye health requires more than just a pair of glasses, doesn’t it?
The Impact of Blue Light on the Eye and Sleep
Staring at screens, especially before bed, can strain your eyes and disrupt your natural sleep rhythm. This strain is linked to the intense blue light emitted from computers and other digital devices, and blue light-blocking glasses are a solution designed to reduce this effect.
By using these glasses, you can lower the amount of blue light that goes into your eyes. Moreover, this will contribute to healthier eyes and a better sleep cycle, keeping you energized and refreshed for the following day.
How Blue Light Blocking Glasses Work
Blue light-blocking glasses, as their name implies, are designed to reduce the amount of blue light your eyes take in, especially from computer screens. These glasses have special lenses that can filter out much of the blue light.
Now, some people get it confused; prescription and blue light-blocking glasses serve different roles: prescription glasses correct vision, while blue light-blocking glasses protect your eyes from digital eye strain.
Although, people with impaired vision can also get prescription glasses with blue light filtering. This way, they will see what’s happening around them and protect their eyes from computer or phone screens.
Popular Blue Light Blocking Glasses Brands
Several brands stand out when you’re looking to protect your eyes from blue light. Felix Gray, for instance, is a top-notch brand known for its high-quality blue light glasses. Its glasses are available online and have a clear return policy, ensuring you get a pair that fits you well.
Additionally, various brands of blue light glasses are available on platforms such as Instagram and other online retailers. If you have a vision condition, it’s crucial to look for prescription blue light glasses.
Also, keep in mind that while blocking lenses can improve eye health, it’s always a good idea to consult the Academy of Ophthalmology or an eye care professional for personalized advice.
Handy Tips for Reducing Blue Light Exposure
Aside from using glasses, there are other ways to curb your blue light intake; for starters, adjusting your screen time can have a significant impact.
Try to limit how much time you spend in front of a computer or other digital screens. If you can’t cut down, at least consider using a blue light filter on your devices.
Additionally, don’t go to bed right after screen time. Late-night exposure to blue light might disrupt the circadian rhythm, your natural sleep-wake cycle. Therefore, make it a habit to wind down without screens at least an hour before bedtime.
Debunking Common Misconceptions about Blue Light Glasses
There’s a lot of chatter about blue light glasses, but not all of it is correct. Let’s bust some myths. First off, not everyone needs these glasses. While they can help reduce eye strain caused by screen time, if your digital usage is moderate, you probably don’t need them.
Another misconception is that these glasses block all blue light. They don’t. The best blue light glasses filter out a portion of it, but not all. Blue light isn’t all bad; it can help with alertness and mood during daylight hours.
Lastly, while a pair of blue light glasses may help, they’re not a magic fix. Alongside using them, consider other strategies such as reducing screen time and taking regular breaks. When making a decision about blue light glasses, it’s best to rely on accurate information and make an informed choice.
Takeaway
In this digital age, glasses designed for blue light filtering have taken center stage. From prescription eyewear to over-the-counter options, they come in all forms to cater to diverse needs.
The use of these glasses is more than just a trend; it’s a reflection of our growing awareness and proactive steps towards eye health amidst our screen-dominated lifestyles.
