If you work in front of a computer for most of the day as we do, you’ve probably experienced symptoms such as eye strain and headaches from something known as blue light. In fact, according to The Vision Council, approximately 6 in 10 adults experience these symptoms after using devices for more than 2 hours.
What is blue light?
Blue light is in our electronic devices such as cell phones, tablets, computers, even some light bulbs, and sunlight. The graph below from Gunnar Optiks shows that blue light is on the edge of the visible light spectrum. Long periods of exposure to blue light can be harmful to your eyes.
How do I protect myself?
The quickest way to protect yourself from blue light is to limit your time on devices. EMarketer says the average US adult spends 3 hours and 43 minutes on their mobile devices. Let’s face it, though; we are always on our devices.
If you aren’t ready to put down your devices, the next best way to protect yourself is to buy a pair of blue light glasses. Gunnar Optiks or Felix Gray offers excellent styles, including prescription options.
Why should I try blue light glasses?
1. Fewer headaches
Light, especially blue light, can trigger migraines and exacerbate headaches. Using glasses that help block blue light can reduce migraines and headache pain.
2. Less eye strain
Blue light can make focusing on your screen or device difficult to focus causing eye strain. Blue light glasses such as the Vertex from Gunnar can increase your screen contrast reducing your eye strain.
3. Reduced the risk of eye diseases
The lens of your eye and your cornea can block out harmful UV light from reaching your retina, but they don’t block out blue light. Too much exposure to blue light can increase your risk of developing blindness.
If you aren’t sure which brand is the best for you, check out this blog post from eyeinfluence.org that compares Gunnar Optiks and Felix Gray. If you have questions about the blue light glasses we use, just contact us, and we can help you out!