Blue light protection is the new hot topic in organic skincare. To understand what effect blue light has on the skin and how we best protect ourselves, let's first clarify what it is. Sunlight consists of a spectrum of rays measured in different wavelengths, nanometers (nm). They are divided into UV rays, visible light, and infrared light. Everyone is aware that we need to protect the skin against UV rays, but few know that research shows we also need to protect the skin against visible blue light.
![An illustration showing the light spectrum from ultraviolet (UVB and UVA) to visible light and infrared.Visible light is highlighted and magnified, with blue light marked within the visible spectrum. Under the magnified section of blue light, icons of a computer screen and a mobile phone are shown, indicating that these devices emit blue light.]
On a cloudless day, we gladly enjoy the blue light in the sky. The blue light rays are positioned at the lowest end of the visible light spectrum and are also called HEV light (High Energy Visible light). Natural blue light affects us positively by influencing our hormonal balance that regulates our mood and sleep cycle.The blue light rays are also found around us artificially in screen light from mobile phones, televisions, computers and tablets. We are simply exposed to blue light rays both day and night, and overexposure to HEV light can affect us negatively.
![A person holding a mobile phone and using it with both hands.]
HEV light penetrates deeper into the skin than UV rays. It reaches all the way down to the subcutaneous layer and stimulates the production of free radicals, which among other things break down the skin's collagen and elastin.The body's defense against free radicals is antioxidants. When there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's capacity to neutralize them with antioxidants, the skin is affected. It ages prematurely, loses its elasticity, and can develop uneven skin tone or pigment spots. Sunscreens only protect in the spectrum between 280 – 400 nm, while blue light extends from 380 – 500 nm. Therefore, it is wise to use blue light protection, especially if you spend a lot of time in front of screens.
![Two pink skincare products from I+M.One is an Aqua Boost and the other is a Daily Wash and Peel.]
To protect the skin against blue light, you can use products that are rich in deep-acting antioxidants. i+m Naturkosmetik now offers blue light protection by adding butterfly bush extract (Buddeleja officinalis) to their skincare products. The extract functions as broad-spectrum protection against UV light, HEV light and infrared light (does not have SPF factor). It provides active cell protection and promotes skin elasticity. The extract, which has a scientifically proven effect, is now included in some of i+m Naturkosmetik's products.
You can also help from within by eating a healthy diet with lots of fruit, vegetables and berries, rich in antioxidants. Alternatively, you can always reduce exposure to artificial HEV light by simply logging off. As we all know, however, this is often easier said than done :).
