Today, the digital transformation and rapid technological advancements being witnessed in every field necessitate the use of smart devices in various aspects of our work and social lives. Devices like tablets, smartphones, and computers have become integral to our daily lives, making tasks easier. However, they also pose significant health risks. Experts state that the blue light emitted from these screen-based devices can adversely affect our health, potentially leading to serious consequences. We researched the negative effects of blue light on human health for you.

What is blue light?

Blue light is essentially a type of light that originates from two distinct sources: one natural and the other artificially produced by humans. This type of light falls within the visible spectrum and is characterized by wavelengths between 380-500 nanometers, making it part of the group with the shortest wavelengths and highest energy. The first type of blue light comes from the Sun and helps regulate the biological rhythms of our bodies. This light, which also enhances our focus, is completely harmless. The second type, which is harmful, is represented by one of the colors in the ROY G BIV spectrum and is found in LEDs and fluorescents used in devices like TVs, smartphones, tablets, and computers. The primary reason this blue light is considered dangerous is that it cannot be filtered by our eyes, allowing it to pass directly to the retina and potentially lead to serious eye diseases.

What are the harms of blue light?

Blue light poses numerous adverse effects on human health. Researchers indicate that the increasing use of technological devices and screens that dominate our daily lives act as triggering factors. Blue light directly affects the retina, causing various health issues related to eye health, starting with dry eyes. It disrupts sleep patterns and leads to difficulties in focusing. The direct signaling from blue light to the retina impacts neurological health. It contributes to the loss of collagen and elastin, resulting in signs of premature aging. It raises stress levels, leading to cellular loss in the skin, creating the potential for blemishes and discoloration. It also causes dark circles under the eyes and negatively affects mental health alongside physical health. Moreover, it increases cancer risk.

How can we protect ourselves from blue light?

To protect physical and mental health, it’s crucial to reduce exposure to blue light. It is known that office workers are especially susceptible to the effects of blue light. However, there are various measures you can take to shield yourself from blue light. Try to limit your time looking at screens that emit blue light, use blue light filtering glasses, squint your eyes when exposed to blue light, and periodically close your eyes to prevent eye strain. It can also be beneficial to use both built-in and additional light filters installed on screens.

Additionally, it’s important to minimize the duration of technological device use, start digital detox practices, utilize applications and screen protectors that reduce blue light, and adjust brightness settings according to the ambient lighting conditions.