We live in an age where most of us are glued to a screen for 8 hours a day. There’s no shame in it, computers and technology are part of working life and how we earn a living! However, these screens emit what is known as blue light which can be harmful to our eyes and general well-being, which is why blue light glasses are becoming more and more popular. First of all, we can help you understand what ‘blue light’ actually is and why it is considered harmful, and then we can help you discover the benefits of blue light glasses.

What is blue light?

Blue light is exactly what it says it is, light with blue wavelengths. Natural blue light occuring during daylight hours, from the sun, is said to be beneficial as it can boost awareness and reaction times, as well as boosting our mood. This is perfect during the day, as we need to stay awake and be alert, but artificial blue light in the evening from television and phone screens could be keeping you awake at night. 

Blue light is also known as High Energy Visible (HEV) light. This is what’s filtered out by blue light glasses.

How does blue light affect our sleep?

You could argue that there are many factors that affect our sleep. The highest on that list would be the anxieties and stress of daily life, adding blue light into the mix as well is probably a cause of restlessness without you even realising. Blue light suppresses the body’s secretion of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep and wakefulness. Though blue light is present in sunlight during the day, it is less noticeable around dusk, which is why sunsets tend to look red. The lack of blue light in the evening allows the body to produce melatonin freely, signalling that it is time to prepare for sleep. Exposure to blue light from electronic devices or artificial lighting after the sun has gone down can disrupt our circadian rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep or get a good night’s rest.

Blue light glasses benefits

Relief of eye discomfort

Excess device and technology usage can lead to computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain. Glasses with blue light filtering technology can enhance your focus and reduce eye strain, resulting in making your eyes feel less tired and improving productivity. Another way to reduce eye strain is to make sure you take regular breaks from the screen, if this is at all possible.

Getting a good night’s sleep  

Blue light has a high energy frequency that can increase alertness and delay the body’s release of melatonin, which helps induce sleep. In general, it’s advisable to avoid using blue-light devices one to two hours before you plan on getting to sleep. Blue-light blocking glasses can reduce the impact of blue light, enabling you to use your devices before bed and still get a good night’s sleep. However, the best option is to put the screen down before it’s time for bed, as this makes for a less active state of mind. 

Prevention of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

In extreme cases of excessive blue light, it can cause a disease called AMD. This is the leading cause of blindness. Blue-light blocking lenses can help avoid or delay this condition by preventing blue light from impacting your eyes. 

Have a read of our other helpful lifestyle and health blogs, like our guide to the best glasses for astigmatism and how to workout whilst wearing glasses.

All Arlo Wolf prescription glasses can be upgraded to our Digital Media Lenses, also known as blue light lenses, without having to skimp on style! Check out our women’s glasses and men’s glasses for our latest collections.

Not sure what style of glasses will suit your face shape? Arlo Wolf has an easy face shapes guide to help you decide on the perfect pair of glasses! And why not take advantage of our try before you buy service, choose any four frames across our entire collection and try them on at home for free!