There have been numerous reports about the effect of blue light, especially for those wishing to sleep and who engage in screen use shortly before retiring (the light throws the body’s biological clock—the circadian rhythm—out of sync). Blue light is part of the visible spectrum, and it has a short wavelength and high energy levels.
One proposed solution is the use of so-called ‘blue light glasses’ (or perhaps more accurately ‘blue-light blocking glasses’). These have been subject to many claims (many of which are unsubstantiated with scientific research). Do these glasses actually work and are they worth the expense? The answer appears to be a general ‘no’.
What to make of the blue light glasses concept? To gain an expert insight, Digital Journal asked from Renowned Ophthalmologist and Refractive Surgeon Specialist Dr. James Kelly of the Kelly Vision Center in NYC.
With so many currently working at home and staring at their screens more than ever, there has been a growing interest in blue light glasses.
Kelly’s assessment is: “There is no generally accepted evidence regarding beneficial effects of screens that filter blue light from computers or mobile phones. There is also no real proof that blue light from these screens harm the eyes.”
There are signs that some aspects of blue light are harmful, as Kelly explains: “However, there is some evidence suggesting sleep disturbances from excessive blue light exposure. Prolonged screen time may certainly cause eye strain and fatigue which may be aggravated by travel.”
One form of travel in particular stands out: “On planes the cabin humidity is low and this causes the tears that coat our eyes to evaporate more quickly resulting in dry eyes.”
In terms of the best practical advice in such situations, Kelly recommends: “There are certain measures that can help in this regard such as taking frequent visual breaks and using artificial tears frequently.”
He adds: “In addition, minimizing screen time close to bedtime is helpful. Also useful is placing screens farther away from the eyes and with the eyes in slight downward gaze. Finally increased screen contrast and “night mode” are good ideas.”
Summing up the expert notes: “There is no particular brand of blue light blocking glasses I recommend. However, if they help decrease discomfort there is no harm using them along with artificial tears.”
