Once upon a time, UV rays were the only type of skin-damaging energy we worried about, then infrared (also known as IR-A) rays that cause the sensation of heat came along. But now, blue light—which is also known as HEV or high-energy visible light—has joined the list of environmental threats to avoid for the sake of our skin—and we (mainly) have electronics to blame.
We have our UV bases covered with broad-spectrum sunscreens, and antioxidants like vitamin C have been shown to help protect against sun and IR-A damage, yet blue-light protection is a whole new ball game. Studies have shown the detrimental effects blue light can have on the skin and eyes—and it’s a fact that this light emitted by smartphones, tablets, laptops and computer monitors (as well as LED lightbulbs) generate damaging free radicals. As our daily “screen time” increases—so does the potential for fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, sensitivity and dryness.
While there’s no specific protocol for blue-light protection like using sunscreen to prevent damage caused by UV exposure, setting your phone to “night mode” (all the time) may reduce exposure. Skincare can offer effective protection against damage caused by blue light, and research has found that specific antioxidants as well as other ingredients may help prevent cellular changes. To step up your fight against blue light, consider these products…
SkinMedica LUMIVIVE System
For protection against blue light, pollution and other environmental aggressors by day and optimal skin rejuvenation overnight, this dynamic duo has your skin covered around the clock. The Day serum features antioxidants, peptides and botanical extracts to provide a protective barrier against the elements while reviving dull, stressed skin, and the Night serum helps promote the skin’s natural repair process—and 85% of users report more radiant skin with less visible signs of environmental damage after 12 weeks. Priced at $265; click here for more information or to purchase.
Photo Credit: SkinMedica
Chantecaille Blue Light Protection Hyaluronic Serum
Combining the hydrating and skin-plumping benefits of hyaluronic acid plus Nasturtium flower and other fermented extracts to offset the visible signs of blue light exposure, this protective serum is as essential in the morning as a cup of coffee. Additional benefits include enhanced radiance, smoothness and firmness, as well as a reduction in redness, while being gentle enough for sensitive skin. Priced at $150; click here for additional information or to purchase.
Photo Credit: Chantecaille
Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics Night Serum
The latest addition to Dr. Sturm’s standout skincare and supplement line, this potent serum is just what your skin needs after sitting in front of your computer all day. Featuring a unique complex of ingredients that includes cotton thistle and senna alata extracts to promote the skin’s natural repair, hydrating hyaluronic acid, redness-reducing beta glucan and Purslane to quell internally- and externally-induced inflammation that can accelerate aging—you’ll wake up with fresh, healthy skin that’s ready to face yet another day. Priced at $310; click here for additional information or to purchase.
Photo Credit: Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics
Sisley-Paris SisleYouth Anti-Pollution Protector
For blue-light protection and the extra energy your skin needs to combat the effects of stress, as well as indoor and outdoor pollutants, this hydrating serum helps maintain a luminous, vibrant complexion. Formulated with antioxidants like buckwheat seed, ginkgo biloba, pea extract and vitamin E plus revitalizing ginseng and kiwi extract, you have the recipe for hydrated, visibly refreshed skin that’s better equipped to face the day. Priced at $198; click here for more information or to purchase.
Photo Credit: Sisley-Paris
Natura Bissé Diamond Cocoon Skin Booster
More than a simple antioxidant serum, this powerful product actually works to help all of your other skincare products protect against blue light and pollution. When mixed into your other serums or creams before application, it leaves a weightless protective barrier that prevents pollution particles from sticking to the skin as probiotics maintain fortify the skin’s barrier and oxygenating ingredients provide an overall revitalized look. After exposure to blue light, testing shows a 57% reduction in free radicals and up to a 92% improvement in skin quality and oxygen levels. Priced at $250; click here for more information or to purchase.
Photo Credit: Natura Bissé
Priori Adaptive Skincare DNA Eye Recovery Cream with Retinol
As if staring at your computer screen all day weren’t bad enough for your skin, inevitable squinting from time to time isn’t doing any favors for your crow’s feet. Offering an array of beneficial ingredients including DNA repair enzymes, line-smoothing retinol, hydrating and plumping hyaluronic acid, antioxidant vitamins C and E, and butterfly bush extract to shield skin from blue light, infrared light, pollution and other environmental aggressors, this comprehensive treatment both corrects and protects against visible signs of aging. Priced at $95; click here for more information or to purchase.
Photo Credit: Priori Adaptive Skincare
Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30
If you’re looking for hydration, sun protection and a radiance boost, this multi-tasking moisturizer-sunscreen hybrid delivers the benefits of three products in one tube. Featuring broad-spectrum SPF 30, antioxidants for free-radical protection, sage-derived bio-ferment to promote even skin tone and light-activated technology that takes skin luminosity to another level, it’s just what you need to defend your skin both indoors and out. Priced at $65; click here for more information or to purchase.
Photo Credit: Dermalogica
One Ocean Beauty Blue Light Protection + Hydration Mist
Continuous blue-light protection (and hydration) throughout the day is as easy as keeping this mist on your desk—and treating yourself to a few spritzes every few hours. Formulated with a radiation-resistant microorganism sourced off the coast of northern Spain and algae from the Celtic Sea, plus barrier-reinforcing hexapeptides, this ultra-fine mist helps prevent and improve light-induced fine lines and dark spots while soothing sensitivity and locking in moisture. Priced at $58; click here for more information or to purchase.
Photo Credit: One Ocean Beauty
