It can also contribute to cataracts, eye cancer and growths on the clear covering over the white part of the eye. Since the eye is not good at blocking blue light, nearly all visible blue light passes through the front of the eye (cornea and lens) and reaches the retina, the cells that convert light for the brain to process into images.Ĭontinued exposure to blue light over time could damage retinal cells and cause vision problems such as age-related macular degeneration. However, there is concern about the long-term effects of screen exposure especially with excessive screen time and when a screen is too close to the eyes.
Is too much exposure to blue light unhealthy?īlue-light exposure from screens is small compared to the amount of exposure from the sun. Inadequate exposure to blue light can also contribute to the recent increase in myopia, or nearsightedness. Sunlight is also important for the growth and development of the eyes and vision in children. It regulates the circadian rhythm, the body's natural wake and sleep cycle. What are the health benefits of blue light?īlue light boosts alertness, helps memory and cognitive function, and elevates mood. Artificial sources of blue light include fluorescent light, compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs, LEDs, flat screen LED televisions, computer monitors, smart phones and tablet screens. Sunlight is the most significant source of blue light. About one-third of all visible light is considered high-energy visible, or "blue," light.
Vibrating within the 380 to 500 nanometer range, it has the shortest wavelength and highest energy. What is blue light?īlue light is part of the visible light spectrum - what the human eye can see. Using electronic devices at night without adjusting the amount of blue light that shines from the screen can affect sleep. But is all of that blue light shining from screens harmful to our health? Melissa Barnett, principal optometrist at the UC Davis Eye Center, talks about the effects of blue light and what you can do to reduce the health risk.
From televisions and smartphones to tablets and gaming systems, most of us are glued to our electronic devices.
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