In our digital age, screens are ubiquitous – from smartphones and tablets to computer monitors and laptop displays. With more and more time spent on screens, blue light exposure has become a growing concern for eye health. Chances are, you’ve heard of blue-light-blocking glasses, but do they actually work? Your eye care is too vital for us to have an “Oh no” moment and see you in a few weeks to help get you back on track.
What Is Blue Light?
Blue light is a high-energy, short-wavelength light emitted naturally by the sun and artificially by digital screens and LED lighting. Natural blue light helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle and promotes alertness while we’re awake, but overexposure — especially from screens — can lead to eye discomfort and interfere with sleep.
How Blue Light Affects Your Eyes
Prolonged periods spent in front of screens can produce a set of symptoms called digital eye strain (also known as computer vision syndrome) that includes:
- Eye fatigue and discomfort
- Dry or irritated eyes
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty falling asleep
Blue light is not the sole offender responsible for these symptoms, but it can be a factor — particularly when screen use extends into the night.
What Are Blue Light-Blocking Glasses?
Blue light-blocking glasses feature lens coatings or materials that block or filter blue and UV light before it reaches your eyes. These can be put into prescription glasses or worn over-the-counter, so everyone wins.
Do Blue Light Blocking Glasses Really Work?
- The simple answer: Yes, but don’t expect miracles.
- Reduced Eye Strain: Blue-light-blocking glasses and eyewear may reduce glare and help relieve eye strain during extended use. Patients commonly report feeling less eye strain and fewer headaches, especially after extended work hours.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Exposure to blue light in the evening can disrupt the body’s production of melatonin, making it more difficult to fall asleep. Wearing blue-light-blocking glasses at night can help promote optimal sleep by reducing exposure to blue light.
- Not a Cure-All: It’s also worth noting that blue light glasses aren’t a cure-all for digital eye strain. Poor posture, an incorrect distance from the screen, insufficient lighting, and a lack of breaks are also major culprits.
Choosing the Right Blue Light Glasses at Smart Opticals
Blue light lenses are not all created equal. At Smart Opticals, we carry Blue Light filtering Lenses at the quality you would expect, but with your prescription, budget, and lifestyle in mind. Our team of skilled eye care experts can help determine whether blue light glasses are the right choice for you, ensuring you enjoy maximum comfort and clear, sharp vision.
Whether you are looking for a trusted vision eye clinic in Mississauga or require the care of an expert Ophthalmologist, our team will be there to provide your eyes with the best possible care.
Final Thoughts
Blue light blocking glasses can help with making screen time more comfortable and sleeping better, but not as a standalone product, only within your eye care routine. You must see an eye doctor regularly, wear the correct eyewear, and practice good habits when using digital devices.
Come to Smart Opticals and see our selection of blue light blocking glasses for yourself, the perfect step for a healthier vision.