What is Blue Light And How Can We Protect Our Skin From Its Damaging Effect?

We live in a world where screens are everywhere - from our phones and laptops to our televisions and even our cars. While these screens have made our lives easier in many ways, they are also exposing us to a type of light--blue light--that can be damaging to our skin.

So, what exactly is blue light and why is it damaging to our skin?

Blue light is a type of high-energy visible (HEV) light that is emitted by electronic devices as well as natural sources like the sun. In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the potential harmful effects of blue light.

While blue light is essential for regulating our sleep-wake cycles and boosting our moods, it can also cause oxidative stress and damage to our skin. It penetrates the skin deeper than UV light. Once it reaches the deeper layer of skin, it breaks down collagen, a protein that gives our skin its structure and elasticity, leading to accelerated signs of aging.

Blue light can also damage the cells that produce melanin, causing discoloration and uneven skin tone. Additionally, free radicals, a by-product of blue light’s contact with the skin, can weaken the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation, dryness, and inflammation.

Prolonged exposure to blue light might be damaging to our well-being as well. Recent studies find that blue light suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep, which can disrupt our sleep patterns and leave us feeling tired and stressed. This lack of sleep and increased stress then can also take a toll on our skin, making it look dull, tired, and more prone to fine lines.

What can we do to protect our skin from blue light damage?

There are few simple steps we can take to protect our skin from the harmful effects of blue light:

1. Reduce screen time: Limit time in front of screens and take regular breaks. If possible, avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime. This will help minimise the impact of blue light on your sleep patterns and your skin.

2. Use blue light blocking options: Most electronic devices now come with blue light blocking options and screens. Make sure to switch them on to ensure additional protection.

3. Apply sunscreen: Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 can help protect your skin from the damaging effects of blue light and other forms of UV radiation. Be sure to reapply every two hours, and after swimming or exercising.

4. Use antioxidant-rich products: Antioxidant-rich products can help neutralise free radicals and protect the skin from photoaging. This includes using skincare products containing antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E, green tea, and rice bran extract. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory oils can also be incorporated in your skincare routine. Jojoba, macadamia, olive, raspberry, sea buckthorn oil, as well as sandalwood, blue tansy, or white cypress essential oils are great options.

ReMI Day Moisturiser has been specially designed to help you fight the effects of blue light photoaging. A lightweight, solid moisturiser, ReMI Day Moisturiser is powered by native oils rich in anti-inflammatory phytosterols and antioxidants such as kakadu plum oil, Australian white cypress oil, and Australian sandalwood oil.
These oils have been combined with BLUE Oléoactif®, a clinically-proven bioactive extracted from the germ of three varieties of rice bran: black, red, and brown. This new-generation bioactive has been proven to boost cells’ repair system against pollution and blue light. The result is bright, plump skin complexion with reduced visible signs of photoaging, hyperpigmentation and fine lines.

Shop ReMI Misturiser Stones here.