Blue Light Blocking Glasses: Everything you Need to Know

Blue Light Blocking Glasses: Everything you Need to Know


18 minute read

In this article we'll cover everything you need to know about potentially harmful blue light and blue light glasses.

As our world becomes increasingly digital, we find ourselves spending more and more time staring at screens. From laptops and smartphones to televisions and tablets, screens have become an inescapable part of our daily lives. But all this screen time comes at a cost - digital eye strain and disrupted sleep patterns. Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a set of symptoms that can include:

  • headaches,

  • blurred vision,

  • dry eyes and more.

It's caused by prolonged use of digital devices and the glare and blue light emitted by screens. Disrupted sleep patterns, on the other hand, are caused by exposure to blue light before bedtime, which can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle.

The solution?

Glasses for screen protection - blue light glasses or blue light blocking glasses. These glasses can help reduce the amount of blue light that reaches your eyes, making it easier for you to work, play, and sleep.

The Science behind blue light lenses and visible light

Blue light is a type of light that is part of the visible light spectrum. It has a shorter wavelength and higher energy than other types of light, such as red or yellow. The blue light spectrum ranges from 380 to 500 nanometers. It's different from other types of light because it's more likely to cause eye strain, headaches, and disrupt sleep patterns.

There are both natural and artificial sources of blue light. Natural sources include the sun, while artificial sources include:

  • digital screen

  • TVs

  • smartphones

  • computer screen

  • tablets

  • fluorescent - bright lights

  • and LED lights.

The natural blue light sources are beneficial for the human body, it helps to regulate our circadian rhythm but when it comes to artificial sources, it can be potentially harmful if exposed to it for prolonged periods of time, especially at night.

It's important to be mindful of the amount of time spent in front of the computer screen and the brightness and color temperature of the lights in your home and office, to reduce the negative impact of artificial blue light on your health.

What is Blue Light and High Energy Visible Light (HEV)

The science behind blue light glasses and blue light blocking technology

In recent years, blue light glasses have become increasingly popular as people spend more and more time staring at digital screens. Blue light glasses are designed to reduce eye strain, headaches, and other symptoms associated with prolonged screen use. The science behind blue light glasses is rooted in the blue light emitted by digital screens. Blue light is a high-energy visible (HEV) light that has been shown to disrupt our sleep patterns, cause eye strain, and even contribute to long-term vision problems. By wearing computer glasses, the lenses filter out a significant portion of the harmful blue light, reducing its negative effects on our eyes and allowing us to use our devices for longer periods of time without experiencing discomfort. Whether you are a professional who spends hours in front of a computer, a gamer who wants to protect your eyes while you play, or simply someone who wants to block blue light or as much blue light as possible, computer glasses may be the solution you are looking for.

The impact of blue light on our health

The impact of blue light on our health is a growing concern as the amount of time we spend in front of screens continues to increase. Blue light suppresses the production of melatonin a hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycle and has been shown to disrupt sleep patterns. This can lead to difficulty falling asleep, insomnia, and other sleep-related problems.

Excessive blue light exposure can cause:

  • eye strain,

  • headaches,

  • and other symptoms of digital eye strain.

Research studies have further demonstrated the negative effects of blue light on our health. A study published in the journal Sleep Health found that adults who spend more time in front of screens have worse sleep quality and are more likely to experience insomnia.

Another study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that exposure to blue light at night can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of obesity.

Overall, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with blue light exposure and to take steps to reduce it, such as by wearing blue light blocking glasses or limiting screen time before bed.

It's also important to be mindful of the amount of time spent in front of screens, the brightness and color temperature of the lights in your home and office, to reduce the negative impact of artificial blue light on your health.

As technology continues to advance and our screens become a constant presence in our daily lives, many of us have experienced the negative effects of blue light on our eyes and sleep patterns. But what exactly is blue light, and how can we protect ourselves from its potentially harmful effects?

How blue light glasses work?

One solution to protect ourselves from the negative effects of blue light is by wearing blue light blocking glasses. These glasses are designed to filter out a portion of the blue light that we are exposed to. They use a special type of lens that blocks or absorbs blue light. This can help to reduce digital eye strain, improve sleep patterns and even reduce the risk of certain health conditions.

Benefits of blue light blocking glasses

Wearing blue light blocking glasses can have a number of benefits for your eyes and overall well-being. Blue light, which is emitted by electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, can cause strain on the eyes and disrupt your natural sleep patterns. Blue light blocking glasses can filter out a portion of the blue light thereby: 

  • reducing the strain on your eyes and 

  • helping you sleep better at night

  • help to improve visual clarity and reduce glare. 

With the increasing use of electronic devices in our daily lives, investing in a pair of blue light blocking glasses can be a simple and effective way to protect your eyes and improve your overall well-being.

Some blue light filtering glasses come with anti glare coating to reduce the glare and UV rays which is harmful for eyes. They can also help to reduce blurry vision and improve overall eye health.

Blue Light Blocking Technology

Should you wear blue light glasses?

If you're in front of a screen for prolonged periods of time and are feeling fatigued, experiencing headaches or having trouble sleeping you may want to consider getting your eyes checked and getting a pair of blue light glasses.

How to choose the right type of blue light glasses

When choosing a pair of Blue Light glasses, you should consider several criteria to so that you get a pair that best meets your needs. 

  1. First, it's important to consider the level of blue light protection that you require. Some glasses have lenses that block more blue light than others, so consider the amount of exposure to blue Light when making your decision. 
  2. Second, consider the style of the glasses. There are many different frame styles and lens shapes available, so choose a pair that fits your personal style and face shape. 
  3. Thirdly, consider the materials used in the glasses. The frames and lenses should be made of high-quality materials that are durable and comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
  4. Finally, consider the cost of the glasses. While you may be tempted to go for the cheapest option, it is important to choose a pair that is made of high-quality materials and provides adequate protection to ensure that you get good value.

There are different types of blue light blocking lenses available in the market.

  • The best blue light blocking glasses have yellow tint lenses that block the most amount of blue light. These blue light glasses use a melanin infused in the lens that appears yellow.

  • The other option are clear blue light lenses with a blue light filtering coating. The benefit is that it's completely clear and does not change the color of objects, but it only blocks a fraction of blue light compared to the yellow tint lenses.

Are blue light blocking glasses only for people with prescription glasses?

No, blue light blocking glasses are not just for people with prescription glasses. They can be worn by anyone who is exposed to excessive amounts of blue light, whether it be from computer screens, smartphones, or other electronic devices. Non-prescription blue light blocking glasses are widely available and can be purchased without a prescription.

If you wear prescription glasses, it may be beneficial to invest in a pair of prescription blue light blocking glasses.

If you don't wear prescription glasses and only use them in front of a computer or other digital devices, you can opt for non-prescription blue light blocking glasses.

Additionally, it's important to check if the blue light glasses you're considering have an anti-glare coating. This will help to reduce glare and reflections on your screen, which can cause eye strain and headaches.

Finally, consider the types of frames. Many blue light blocking glasses come in a variety of styles and frame materials, so you can choose a pair that best suits your personal aesthetic.

Investing in a pair of blue light glasses can make a significant difference in reducing digital eye strain and improving your overall well-being.

Can blue light blocking glasses improve sleep?

Research has shown that blue light can disrupt our natural sleep patterns by suppressing the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle. Blue light blocking glasses, which filter out blue light, can help improve sleep by allowing for the natural production of melatonin. One study found that individuals who wore blue light blocking glasses for three hours before bedtime had significantly improved sleep compared to a control group.

Digital eye strain and sleep patterns

The increasing amount of time we spend staring at screens has led to an increase in digital eye strain and disrupted sleep patterns. One solution to this problem is the use of blue light blocking glasses. Excessive exposure to Blue Light during the night can disrupt your body's natural sleep patterns by suppressing the release of melatonin, a hormone crucial for regulating sleep. Although small amounts of Blue Light during the day can be beneficial, it is important to limit exposure at night to maintain a healthy circadian rhythm.

Are blue light blocking glasses for computer screens?

Yes, blue light blocking glasses can be worn while working on computer screens for long hours. They are specifically designed to filter out the blue light emitted by electronic devices, which can cause digital eye strain and disrupted sleep patterns. Wearing blue light blocking glasses while working on a computer can help reduce these negative effects and improve overall eye health.

Do blue light blocking glasses have any side effects?

There are no known side effects associated with blue light blocking glasses. They are designed to filter out blue light, which can cause digital eye strain and disrupted sleep patterns, without affecting the visibility of the screen. However, it is always important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any new product, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

How much blue light is too much?

It is not a fixed amount of blue light that is considered "too much," as it can vary depending on the individual and their sensitivity to blue light. However, prolonged exposure to blue light, particularly in the evening, can disrupt the body's natural sleep patterns and cause digital eye strain. Wearing blue light blocking glasses or limiting screen time in the evening can help reduce exposure to excessive blue light.

Will blue light blocking glasses work for me?

Blue light blocking glasses can be effective for many people in reducing digital eye strain and improving sleep. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if they are the right solution for you. Additionally, it is important to note that blue light blocking glasses are just one aspect of managing excessive blue light exposure and other measures, such as limiting screen time, can also be effective.

How do blue light filtering glasses work?

Blue light blocking glasses work by filtering out the blue light that is emitted from electronic devices, which can help to reduce digital eye strain and improve sleep. There are different types of blue light blocking lenses available, including orange tinted, clear, and yellow tinted lenses. The benefits of using blue light blocking glasses include improved sleep and reduced digital eye strain.

When choosing a pair of blue light blocking glasses, it is important to consider what type of lens will work best for you, whether you need prescription glasses or not, and how to properly care for and store your glasses. It is also important to remember that protecting our eyes from potentially harmful blue light is crucial for maintaining good eye health.

Incorporating blue light blocking glasses into your daily life is an easy and effective way to reduce digital eye strain and improve sleep. Whether you spend long hours working on a computer or simply enjoy using electronic devices in the evening, blue light blocking glasses can help to protect your eyes and improve your overall well-being.

Does a blue light lens help with eye strain?

In today's digital age, screens have become a ubiquitous part of our daily lives. From our smartphones and laptops, to our TVs and tablets, we are constantly exposed to blue light. While this type of light can be beneficial during the day, exposure to it at night can have detrimental effects on our health.

One of the most common effects of excessive blue light exposure is digital eye strain. This can cause symptoms such as dry eyes, headaches, and fatigue. These symptoms can be particularly debilitating for those who spend long hours working on computers or staring at screens.

In addition to digital eye strain, exposure to blue light at night can also disrupt our sleep patterns. The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycle. This can make it difficult for us to fall asleep and stay asleep, leading to chronic sleep deprivation.

Prolonged exposure to blue light can also cause damage to the retina over time, which can increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration. This is a serious condition that can cause permanent vision loss, making it essential to protect our eyes from potentially harmful blue light.

In summary, it's important to filter blue light as it can cause digital eye strain, disrupted sleep patterns and eye damage. These can be detrimental to our health and well-being, making it essential to take steps to protect our eyes from excessive blue light exposure. To do this, we can use blue light blocking glasses, adjust the settings on our devices, or use software that filters blue light.

Tips for blue light protection and to reduce blue light exposure

Reduce Electronics Use Before Bed

How should I avoid using electronics while at bed? Ideally, you must be able to end screens at least a few hours before you wake up so that you can increase Melatonin levels. Instead of Facebook, try reading some books or listening to some music.

Switch Up Your Home Lighting

Fluorescent light bulbs emit more blue light than incandescent light bulbs. Many manufacturers have already begun making LED lightbulbs, which emulate colors of incandescent lighting. Consider switching to warmer lights or dimming to lower the light output of the room when the time comes for bed. Similarly, using a dark red nightlight during nighttime baths can help give illumination and limit blue lights exposure.

Can Blue Light Cause Eye Damage?

Some studies have suggested that blue light damage to the retina may be linked to macular degeneration. 

Blue light glasses can make it easier to fall asleep

Blue light glasses will be worth a try for those who have spent hours in front of their screens. This light tells a person to stay awake when he/she needs rest to wake up. Glasses blocking some blue light your eyes absorb may help you sleep.

How you can reduce the impacts of blue light overexposure?

One way to reduce the impacts of Blue Light overexposure is to:

Limit screen time. Instead of scrolling through your phone or watching TV before going to sleep, try reading a book or doing a relaxing activity to help your mind wind down. 

Wear Blue Light Glasses. This can also help to reduce the amount of Blue Light you are exposed to. The best blue light glasses have a slight yellow tint that make them the best blue light blocking glasses. If you spend a lot of time in front of a screen wearing blue light glasses is the best way to increase your blue light protection.

Room Lighting. It is important to maintain consistent lighting levels in the room when using electronic devices to avoid eye strain. This can be achieved by adjusting the brightness of screens and using appropriate lighting in the room.

Reduce Brightness on Digital Devices. Many devices have settings that allow you to dim the screen or shift the color spectrum to more red tones. Some manufacturers also offer special light bulbs that emit less Blue Light in the evening to help promote better sleep.

Consistent Sleep Schedule. Finally, it is also important to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and to get enough sleep each night. By implementing these strategies, you can reduce the impact of Blue Light on your sleep and overall health.

How Blue Light Glasses Came To Be and the Best Blue Light Glasses

The use of Blue Light glasses has become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people are becoming aware of the negative effects of Blue Light exposure on sleep and overall health. The concept of Blue Light glasses originated from research conducted by The Vision Council and the American Optometric Association, which found that prolonged exposure to Blue Light, particularly from electronic devices, can cause digital eye strain and disrupt the body's natural sleep patterns.

As a result, the organizations began to develop and promote glasses with specialized lenses that filter out Blue Light. These glasses not only provide relief for digital eye strain but also help to regulate the body's production of melatonin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep. Nowadays, many eyewear brands offer Blue Light glasses, and the trend is becoming more mainstream.

How to clean blue light glasses

Maintaining the cleanliness of your blue light glasses is important not only for appearance purposes but also for the longevity and effectiveness of the glasses. It's recommended to clean your glasses regularly to avoid dirt, smudges, and fingerprints from obstructing your vision. A simple and effective method for cleaning your blue light glasses is to first rinse them under running water to remove any loose dirt or debris. Then, use a gentle soap or lens cleaning solution and lather it on the lenses and frame. Gently rub the lenses with your fingers, being careful not to scratch the surface. Rinse the glasses thoroughly with running water to remove all soap residue. Finally, dry the glasses with a microfiber cloth or a soft, clean towel. Avoid using paper towels, tissue, or other rough materials as they can scratch the lenses. By following these simple steps, you can keep your blue light glasses looking and functioning like new.

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