Health warnings about outdoor exposure to sunlight have been prominent for decades; however, a King of Prussia dermatologist is warning about an indoor risk. The MarthaStewart.com comments from Dr. Erum Ilyas of King of Prussia discussed the threats of blue light from illuminated devices.
Excessive exposure to blue light, also known as high-energy visible (HEV) light, has already been associated with eye strain and headaches.
It’s now being cited as a cause of noncancerous — but nonetheless concerning — conditions such as melasma (brown-gray splotches) and age spots.
“When people think about the discoloration and the skin, they are often focused on UV light and its effects,” says Erum Ilyas, aboard-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in King of Prussia.
“However, blue light is garnering more attention these days given the widespread use of portable electronics and LED lights — and the reliance on these for work and school,” she explained.
She noted that certain careers — both those in front of screens and those under LED-based lighting (like teachers, she cites) — may be particularly susceptible.
Mitigating techniques include use of sunscreen with blue light blockers, taking antioxidants to boost deep dermal layers’ ability to offer protection, using eyesight-friendly covers on devices, or just keeping them permanently in “night mode.” This latter action can tone down some skin-damaging waves emanating from electronics.
Additional illumination on blue light and skin health are at MarthaStewart.com.
