In 2019, California passed the State Blue Light Resolution SCR-73, declaring October 10 as Blue Light Awareness Day. Screen time now exceeds 13 hours per day, which means we are exposed to higher levels of blue light than ever before. This holiday is a good reminder for us to learn about blue light and the ways we can protect ourselves and our families.
What is blue light?
To understand the importance of Blue Light Awareness Day, it’s helpful to know exactly what blue light is. Blue light is a high-energy visible light that can be seen by human eyes.
While the sun is our largest source of blue light, digital devices such as laptops, computer monitors, and smartphones also give off blue light. Blue light from devices is especially concerning because of how close the screens our to our eyes and the amount of time we spend on our devices nearly every day.
Why is blue light a concern?
According to a recent survey, 94% of eye doctors are concerned about rising screen time and blue light, and for good reason. Symptoms most cited by eye care professionals as a result of excessive blue light exposure from digital devices include dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches and even reduced productivity.
Research at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center found that blue light also suppresses the release of melatonin, the sleep hormone. Because of this, late-night device use may result in sleep disruption. As we know, lack of sleep can also lead to reduced alertness the next day and impacted mood and behavior.
Additionally, according to the AOA foundation, children may be at greater risk of blue light exposure because their eyes don’t have the same blue light-filtering ability as adults’ eyes. Children also position digital devices closer to their eyes, increasing the intensity of their blue light exposure.
How to Participate in Blue Light Awareness Day
Blue Light Awareness Day reminds us of the importance of protecting ourselves against blue light from digital screens. Educating yourself about the potential risks and recognizing the ways to protect yourself from blue light is an excellent way to participate in Blue Light Awareness Day. Here are 5 tips to reduce your exposure:
- Limit device use, especially at night
- Practice the 20-20-20 rule by looking at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes
- Add an Eyesafe® Blue Light Screen Protector to your laptop, phone and monitor
- Look for Eyesafe® Certified low blue light products when shopping for a new device
- Get an eye exam annually to monitor any changes in vision
Mark your calendar and get ready to spread the word about blue light on October 10! Visit the Blue Light Awareness Day website to learn more about blue light and the steps you can take to spread awareness and protect yourself.
About Eyesafe
Eyesafe Inc. is a world leader in blue light management, including display technology, standards, certification, and accessory solutions. With an expansive portfolio of intellectual property, the company employs a world-class team of eye doctors, engineers, and scientists with decades of experience in electronics, display materials, light management, optometry, and ophthalmology. The Eyesafe brand is trusted by consumers and integrated in millions of digital devices from Dell, HP, Lenovo, LG, ZAGG and more. Eyesafe is recognized by Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest growing private companies in America for the second consecutive year. Learn more at eyesafe.com.
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Arick Wierson
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