Sunglasses have been a popular fashion accessory for decades, but did you know that they serve a much more important purpose than just looking stylish? Sunglasses are essential for protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays, which can cause a variety of eye problems over time. But what about blue light? With the increasing amount of time we spend staring at screens, it’s important to ask the question: do sunglasses block blue light?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what blue light is and how sunglasses work to protect our eyes from it. We’ll also explore the different types of sunglasses and their ability to block blue light. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to choose the right sunglasses to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of blue light.
What is Blue Light?
Blue light is a type of light that has a short wavelength and a high frequency. It’s naturally present in sunlight, and it’s also emitted by electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. While some blue light is necessary for our bodies to function properly, too much exposure to blue light can have negative effects on our eyes and our overall health.
Research has shown that prolonged exposure to blue light can cause digital eye strain, which can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dry eyes, and blurred vision. Blue light can also disrupt our natural sleep patterns, making it harder to fall asleep at night and leading to a variety of health problems over time.
So, how can we protect ourselves from the harmful effects of blue light? That’s where sunglasses come in. By blocking out blue light, sunglasses can help reduce the amount of strain on our eyes and help us get a better night’s sleep. But how do sunglasses actually work? Let’s take a closer look.
How Do Sunglasses Work?
Sunglasses work by blocking or absorbing light, reducing the amount of light that reaches our eyes. Most sunglasses are designed to block out UV rays, which can cause a variety of eye problems such as cataracts and macular degeneration. But some sunglasses are also designed to block out blue light.
The lenses of these blue light blocking sunglasses are typically made of a special material that filters out blue light. Some lenses have a yellow tint, while others may be clear. The yellow tinted lenses are often preferred because they not only block out blue light, but also enhance contrast and reduce glare.
It’s worth noting that not all sunglasses are created equal when it comes to blocking blue light. The effectiveness of blue light blocking sunglasses can vary depending on factors such as the color and material of the lenses, as well as the amount of blue light they are designed to block.
Do Sunglasses Block Blue Light?
So, the big question is: do sunglasses actually block blue light? The answer is yes and no. It depends on the type of sunglasses you have.
Some sunglasses are specifically designed to block blue light, while others may not. Sunglasses that are designed to block blue light will typically have lenses that are labeled as “blue light blocking” or “blue light filtering.” These lenses are made of a special material that absorbs blue light, reducing the amount of blue light that reaches our eyes.
However, not all sunglasses that claim to block blue light are created equal. Some may only block a small amount of blue light, while others may block out a significant amount. When shopping for blue light blocking sunglasses, it’s important to look for ones that are labeled as “certified” or “tested” to ensure that they actually block out a significant amount of blue light.
With that said, there are different types of blue light, and some are more harmful than others. Blue light with a wavelength between 415-455nm, also known as “high-energy visible” or “HEV” blue light, is the most harmful to our eyes. Some blue light blocking sunglasses are specifically designed to block out this type of blue light, while others may only block out a small amount. It’s essential to look for sunglasses that are designed to block out HEV blue light if you want maximum protection for your eyes.
Final Thoughts
Sunglasses can be an effective way to protect our eyes from blue light. Blue light blocking sunglasses are designed to filter out blue light, reducing the amount of strain on our eyes and helping us get a better night’s sleep. However, not all sunglasses are created equal when it comes to blocking blue light. It’s important to look for sunglasses that are labeled as “certified” or “tested” to ensure that they actually block out a significant amount of blue light.
So, do sunglasses block blue light? The answer is yes, but it depends on the type of sunglasses you have. If you’re looking for maximum protection from blue light, it’s important to look for sunglasses that are designed to block out HEV blue light.
By taking the time to choose the right sunglasses, you can help protect your eyes from the harmful effects of blue light and ensure that you can enjoy your time in the sun and in front of screens with peace of mind.