Ageing in the digital age – Blue Light Ageing
Blue light – something we often associate with sleep disruption! Recent research shows that the very same visible spectrum of light can damage the skin and cause accelerated ageing. An article published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology in 2010 concluded that blue light from the sun causes pigment, swelling, and redness than UVA. Another study published in the Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity in 2015 drew a potential link between blue light exposure and free radical damage.
Despite the obvious fact that our blue light devices (laptops, phones, iPads, TVs) emits a modest amount of blue light compared to natural sources, the light from digital devices is less diffused due to the proximity between the devices and our skin. The damage caused by UV and blue light is also cumulative and with the mounting evidence pointing towards blue light causing preventable accelerated ageing and skin damage. Don’t you often find your face looking dull and ashen after a whole day in front of the computer? Our team has curated a few products and simple steps you can make use of to reduce and minimise blue light related skin damage.
- Buy a blue light screen protector.
The damage from blue light goes beyond the skin; purchasing a blue light screen protector for your devices is a simple and effective way to reduce blue light exposure.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and/or a product designed to fight off free radicals and blue light.
The Organic Pharmacy Radiant Day Shield is designed to be used as a protective booster that can be mixed into your sunscreen or used under your sunscreen for extra radiance. When indoors, this product can be used alone. Containing Grape Stem Cells, Copper minerals, and Gold, this product rejuvenates and gives the skin a healthy glow while offering slight UV protection - SPF 10.
- Look out for products with antioxidants such as vitamin C.
Antioxidants such as vitamin C help to neutralise free radicals when can cause damage and pre-mature ageing. Our team loves The Organic Pharmacy Vitamin C Serum which is a lightweight concentrated formula stabilised for long lasting effectiveness.
For drier skin types or skin that requires a boost of hydration, the Osea Sea Vitamin Boost is a lightweight mist that can be used throughout the day. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants and also contains Algae to rejuvenate and soothe the skin.
Mature skin types may benefit more from a nourishing and multi-tasking serum such as the Evolve Organic Beauty Superfood 360 Natural Face Serum which is a truly organic product containing soothing and hydrating ingredients that work to nourish and protect the skin. This product also contains Hyaluronic Acid to plump the skin and is one of our favourite zoom meeting serums.
Suki Radical Results Youth Serum combines Coenzyme 10, a powerful anti-ageing ingredient, with vitamins A, C and E to stimulate collagen production while fending off free radicals. We love using this serum when our skin is looking a bit dull and needs a boost
- Spend less time in front of screens.
As we continue to work from home, many of us will continue spending long hours in front of our screens. Minimise this by taking breaks and engaging in activities that do not require screen time, such as reading a book, playing boardgames, or an at home facial with one of our at home facial sets.
- Reduce the screen brightness.
This reduces the light intensity and is also less glaring for your eyes. Since light damage is cumulative, reducing your screen’s brightness level to 50% or even 25% can significantly reduce your collective blue light exposure.
Remember to look at a distance every hour at your desk and stretch out your body.
Enjoy xoxoxo
