How Indoor Light Might Be Harming Your Skin By Lucy Macdougald

The current state of the world means many of us are transitioning to working from home or relying more on technology to communicate, interact and execute tasks (usually meaning more time spent indoors than ever before).

Lifestyles have changed dramatically since staying in has become the new black. We’re spending far more time indoors in potentially stuffier rooms. Air quality is generally poorer and we’re getting less natural sunlight than the skin is used to. On top of the environmental differences, changes in our habits and routine are also creeping in. Add to that the extra exposure to technology and you can guarantee your skin might be feeling the effects. Regardless of whether you work indoors all day, are front of a screen constantly, regularly use a mobile phone to catch up on your socials, or are partial to the occasional Netflix binge, for the average person, light exposure is a sign of our modern times.

Lucy Macdougald, explains how overexposure to indoor light and blue light can impact the skin.

UVA EXPOSURE

Many people don’t realise that indoor light, mainly in the form of fluorescent and halogen, emit low levels of UVA light that can be hazardous to skin. In fact, there has been evidence published that shows high-energy visible light (HEVL), which is emitted from energy-efficient fluorescent bulbs and LED lights, can cause ROS-mediated photoaging (responsible for creating free-radical damage within the skin when it’s exposed to UV light from the sun). Free-radical damage can create a myriad of problems within the skin including acne, pigmentation, eczema and collagen degradation.

The indoor light exposure can also cause inflammation in the skin.

OXIDATIVE STRESS

A study conducted in 2017 and published by PubMed revealed that blue light (from technology devices like TVs, computers, laptops, smart phones and tablets, electronic devices, and fluorescent and LED lighting) “could produce oxidative stress in live skin”. Oxidative stress in skin plays a major role in the ageing process and can dehydrate cells, cause inflammation and chronic skin complaints, and even lead to skin cancer.

PREMATURE AGEING

The same study also concluded that “blue light contributes to skin aging similar to UVA”. Blue light can affect collagen production and damage delicate fibres increasing the visible signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles. As collagen production naturally slows with age, blue light exposure is a double whammy for those wishing to preserve their fountain of youth.

SENSITIVITY

Cellular damage caused by blue light can lead to dehydrated cells which can weaken barrier function and cause sensitive skin.

So, whilst we know that exposure to blue light rays isn’t good for the skin, the burning question is, in our modern world, how do we avoid it? I recommend a holistic approach:

LIMIT SCREEN TIME

The most obvious solution to reduce blue light exposure is to limit screen time where possible. Most smartphones have an inbuilt app which identifies how much time you’re spending online, and where. Awareness of internet habits can help reduce time spent scrolling and therefore exposure to blue light. Other ways to limit mobile phone use can include only checking socials at set times of the day, leaving the phone off until you leave the house in the morning, or keeping your phone on silent at work.

USE NATURAL LIGHT

Wherever possible, try to get some time outdoors when you can (wearing sun protection of course) and have a break from screens and indoor lighting. Also don’t forget other great sources of light like candles which can be a welcome change in your home! Turn off lights during the day when you’ve got natural light coming in and make sure you open the blinds if they’re closed!

APPLY A FILTER TO SCREENS

Blue light screen filters are available for most mobile phones, tablets and laptops. Whilst they may only filter a maximum of 60% of blue light rays, a filter can significantly reduce exposure for those who spend their days in front of a computer or laptop. Excessive or even minimal exposure to Blue light can suppress the production of melatonin (sleep-inducing hormone), so filtering it out can actually help you sleep better too. What’s more, it will also reduce digital eye strain, so your eyes won’t feel so tired by the end of the day.

DON’T RELY ON SUNSCREEN

While sunscreen protects against the sun’s harsh UV rays, it’s no guarantee it will defend against blue light damage. If you’re looking at sunscreen for this purpose, always choose one that specifically contains HEV light protection.