Blue light is part of the visible spectrum of ultraviolet radiation, thus a significant luminous energy. A particular characteristic of blue light is its relatively low wavelength (lower than the rest of the optical spectrum), which results in a higher concentration of energy and consequently greater chances of harming us when absorbed in large quantities by our bodies.
With the rapid advancement of technology and the daily need for information and updates, as well as the need for entertainment and play, we find ourselves exposed to blue light for more hours, both we and our children.
Blue Light and Children
Last year, due to the pandemic, most children began remote learning, and many still continue with online classes even for extracurricular activities. With the additional hours of learning and entertainment in front of computer or smartphone screens, experts anticipate an increase in eye diseases among children and youth, as the eye tissue is particularly sensitive at younger ages. The increased use of electronic media by children has been linked to a rise in myopia. Given these facts, it is logical for parents to worry about the potential effects of excessive exposure of their children to blue light.
What are the Symptoms of Exposure to Blue Light?
- Blurred vision
- Eye irritation
- Dry eyes
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
How Can We Protect Children from Blue Light?
Here are some very useful tips on how you can protect your children’s eyes from blue light:
- Adjust the brightness and contrast on the screen to make it more comfortable for the child.
- The child should take breaks from the screen every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds, focusing their eyes on something different that is far away.
- During the break, the child should blink their eyes several times.
- Turn off all devices 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime, as blue light can disrupt sleep quality.
- Spend more time doing outdoor activities away from screens.
Glasses for Protection Against Blue Light
Another very effective thing you can do for your children, as well as for yourself, is to use optical lenses with a special blue light filter for prolonged screen use. The radiation through these lenses is trapped, allowing only a very small beneficial part to pass through to the eye. Modern blue light filters do not distort color perception, as older technologies did; on the contrary, they offer comfortable and relaxed vision with greater clarity.
Why Are Computer Glasses Recommended?
Scientific studies have shown that excessive exposure to blue light can cause irreversible damage to vision. It can reduce the lifespan of the photoreceptors of our precious photoreceptor cells. Blue light also increases the risk of macular degeneration and is linked to eyelid cancers, corneal inflammations, diabetic retinopathy, and early cataracts.
Why Should Children Wear BlueBlock Glasses?
- BlueBlock lenses block most of the harmful blue light while allowing only a small amount that is beneficial for the development of children’s eyes.
- They provide 100% UV420 protection, which is more than a pair of sunglasses that provide UV400 protection.
- They prevent eye strain, irritation, and dry eyes.
- They contribute to a quality and restful sleep.
In our stores, you will find all optical lenses from top companies with special filters for blue light, with or without prescription, to provide your children’s eyes with all the necessary protection.