Blue light constitutes one of the colors available in the visible light spectrum and can be seen by the human eye.

Blue light has a wavelength of between 400−495 nm. This short length confers on blue light a high energy visibility status. The main source of blue light is from the Sun.

With the recent advancements in technology, blue light is becoming readily available in man’s immediate environment.

Exposure to blue light also comes from access/interaction with a variety of computers, smartphones, televisions, tablets, and sources of lighting.

And the numbers of people exposed to blue light emissions continue to rise.

Statistics reveal that 70 percent of adults in the US own a smartphone while 45 percent make use of a tablet computer.

For children and younger ones, the numbers rise to as high as 86 percent. This means that these individuals receive copious amounts of blue light radiation on a daily basis.

These exposure levels raise serious health concerns.

On the one hand, natural exposure to blue light, during the day, is touted to boost energy levels, enhance alertness and improve one’s mood.

On the other hand, the issues with blue light exposure center on close proximity to smart devices, especially at night.

Blue Light and Eye Health

Again it is worth mentioning that blue light falls under the high energy visible light spectrum.

When viewing smart devices at night, the blue light high energy levels puts a huge demand on the retina of the eyes, especially in the low-light environment, like a dimly-lit or a totally dark room.

Prolonged exposure continues to exert this pressure, which may lead to the development of eye problems including digital eye strain, retina damage, dry eyes as well as age-related macular degeneration.

Blue Light, Sleep, and Circadian rhythm

The human body is wired to stay active during the day and to unwind/rest (sleep) at night.

Studies show that over-exposure to blue light occurs at night.

The high energy levels associated with the light can increase the heart rate and body temperature as well as disrupt the natural sleep mechanism or clock (circadian rhythm).

In more detail, blue light emission has been found to hinder the release of melatonin, a chemical agent in the body that conditions the body’s need for rest and a good night sleep.

In effect, blue light has the potential of usurping the body’s need for sleep, leading to a wakeful night and often, a sluggish day.

Measures to guard against the effects of Blue Light on health

While blue light, sourced from both the Sun and man-made devices, will always be around us, measures exist that can mitigate its effects. They include the following:

Screen time

Endeavour to cut back on the amount of time spent in front of the screens of smart devices. It is also wise to take frequent breaks to give the eyes some rest.

Filters

Make use of blue light filters tailored for smartphones, tablets, and computer screens.

These materials lower the emission levels of blue light given off from these devices that could reach the retina.

Anti-reflective lenses

Employ anti-reflective lenses to reduce glare and increase contrast.

These lenses also work to block blue light from smartphones and other devices.

Put in place a rule that ensures smartphones and other devices are put away at least 1 hour before bedtime.

Resources To Help You

In case you need help in coping with the effects of blue light, Iris has resources and materials to assist you.

The company produces intelligent software that installs on just about any device or computer and controls the amount of blue light emission that reaches your eyes.

Named after the company, Iris is basically software for eye protection, health, and productivity.

Iris achieves this feat in two ways:

• Users can decrease the amount of blue light emitted from the screen of their computer or smart device.
• Users can regulate screen brightness with the ability to control Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) and flickering.

Iris software comes in a variety of models to suit various budgets, needs, and demands.

Users can select from any of the following packages including Iris, Iris mini, Iris micro, Iris OS, Iris Floss as well as Iris floss for Wayland.

For more information and buying guide, do visit the manufacturer’s page at https://iristech.co/