Blue Light Sunscreen: Protection from Harmful Blue Light

We live in a digital world, and a lot of our day is spent behind the screen. Like it or not, blue light has become a big part of our lives.

You must have heard of blue light's effects on your eyes and sleep cycle. But have you ever considered its impact on your skin?

In this blog, we will talk about how you can protect your skin with blue light sunscreen.

So, let's dive in.

What is Blue Light Exactly?

Blue light is a high-energy visible (HEV) light that's emitted by the sun. It's part of the range of colors our eyes can detect. Operating within a specific wavelength, typically falling between 380 and 500 nanometers, blue light presents itself as the familiar color blue.

This type of light isn't solely a product of the sun. It also emanates from various sources, including smartphones and computers. Certain indoor lighting setups also emit blue light. Its distinguishable characteristics lie in its shorter wavelength and higher energy when compared to other colors of light.

Exposure to blue light, particularly during extended periods or at night, can potentially impact our eyes, sleep patterns, and even our skin.

How Much Damage Can Blue Light Cause?

Blue light limits the production of melatonin and disrupts sleep. It has also been linked to vision damage.

When it comes to your skin, blue light has been found to cause structural changes in skin cells, causing cells to shrink and even cell death. Over time, this may contribute to skin aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.

Exposure to blue light has also been linked to increased oxidative stress on the skin. It prompts the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This oxidative stress can also accelerate the aging process.

Prolonged exposure to blue light can also disrupt the skin's natural barrier function. This disruption may result in heightened skin sensitivity, dryness, and occasional inflammation.

Blue light exposure may also stimulate an excess production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin coloration. This may lead to hyperpigmentation, manifesting as uneven skin tone and the appearance of dark spots on the face. A sunscreen with blue light protection may be able to prevent such damage.

Wavelength of Blue Light

Blue light has a shorter wavelength and higher energy compared to other colors in the visible light spectrum. Its wavelength ranges from about 380 to 500 nanometers, making it closer to UV light than other visible light colors.

The best sunscreen for blue light works as a barrier, preventing blue light from penetrating the skin.

Is Blue Light Aging Your Skin?

The short answer? Yes, blue light may contribute to skin aging.

You see, blue light isn't just any old light; it's packing some serious energy. And when it hits our skin, it doesn't just hang out on the surface – it dives deep. This deep penetration can stir up a bit of trouble in the form of oxidative stress. Picture it like a mini storm inside your skin, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) causing a ruckus and damaging those precious skin cells.

Now, you might be wondering, "What's the big deal?" Well, over time, this oxidative stress can take its toll, showing up as signs of premature aging. We're talking about those pesky wrinkles making an early appearance, a bit of sagging here and there, and even a loss of that youthful elasticity we all love.

So, while we're busy scrolling through our screens and soaking in that blue glow, our skin might be paying the price. But don't stress too much. Blue light sunscreen protection is all you need.

But next time you're faced with a screen marathon, maybe consider dialing it down a bit.

Can Sunscreen Protect You from Blue Light?

The typical sunscreen does offer some defense against blue light thanks to its broad-spectrum protection. However, there are a few extra things to consider if you're looking to amp up your blue light defense game.

First off, let's talk about physical sunscreens with mineral filters, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These create a literal barrier on your skin, refracting and scattering that pesky blue light away from deeper layers.

When picking out your blue light sunscreen, be sure to grab one labeled "broad-spectrum." This means it's got your back against both UVA and UVB rays, which often overlap with the blue light spectrum. Double the protection, double the fun!

Now, here's a little bonus tip. Besides blue light SPF, also keep an eye out for antioxidant-rich formulations. Ingredients like vitamins C and E, green tea extract, niacinamide and Ectoin are like little warriors against blue light. They neutralize its effects and keep your skin happy and healthy.

But wait, there's more! Some sunscreens now come with blue light-blocking ingredients, like iron oxide. This ingredient absorbs and reflects those blue light wavelengths, adding an extra layer of defense to your skincare routine.

Conclusion

Blue light may not be as well-known as UV radiation, but it's still something to be mindful of, especially in our increasingly digital world. By incorporating a broad-spectrum sunscreen into your daily skincare routine, you can help protect your skin from the harmful effects of blue light.

So, slather on that blue light sunscreen and keep glowing, inside and out!

Here is a summary of CodeSkin Sunscreen and the blue light protection they offer. This has been validated by clinical studies.

CodeSkin UltraLite Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+

CodeSkin UltraProtect Fluid Sunscreen SPF 100+

CodeSkin UltraMatte oil-free Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+

CodeSkin UltraMatte Mineral Gel Sunscreen SPF 50+

CodeSkin UltraSensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+

CodeSkin Ultra Mineral Glo Sunscreen SPF 40+

	UltraLite Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+	UltraMatte Oil-free Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+	Ultra Mineral Glo Sunscreen SPF 40+	UltraSensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+	UltraMatte Mineral Gel Sunscreen SPF 50+	UltraProtect Fluid Sunscreen SPF 100+
Blue Light (400-500)	58.12%	80.74%	63.23%	88.99%	84.24%	80.37%
Visible Light (400-700)	47.16%	67.18%	57.23%	80.00%	80.51%	67.24%
Infrared Light(750-1000)	19.70%	36.82%	37.56%	53.57%	68.74%	30.36%