Eyeglasses that claim to filter outblue light from computers, smartphones and tablets are becoming increasingly popular. Ads for these glasses claim overexposure to blue light can cause a number of problems, includingdigital eye strain, sleep cycle disruption,or even blinding eye diseases.
There is no scientific evidence that the light coming from computer screens is damaging to the eyes. Because of this, the Academy does not recommend any special eye wear for computer use.
Is Blue Light From Screens Hurting My Eyes?
Long hours staring at digital screens leads to decreased blinking. Blinking less sometimes causes a series of temporary eye symptoms known aseye strain. But these effects are caused by how people use their screens, not by anything coming from the screens.The best way to avoid eye strain is to take breaks from the screen frequently.
The amount oflightcoming from a computer has never been demonstrated to cause any eye disease.A study reprinted bythe National Library of Medicine foundno measurable UVA or UVB radiation (the most harmful part of light)from computer screens.
There is some evidence that blue light affects the body’s circadian rhythm, our natural wake and sleep cycle. The best way to avoid sleep disruption is to avoid using screens two to three hours before bed. Using"dark" or "night" mode on devices in the evening can help, too.
Do Blue Light-Blocking Glasses Help With Eye Strain?
Several studies suggest that blue light-blocking glasses do not improve symptoms of digital eye strain. The American Academy of Ophthalmology does not recommend blue light-blocking glasses because of the lack of scientific evidence that blue light is damaging to the eyes.
What Can I Do To EaseEye Strain?
You can protect your eyes from strain if you work with computers all day with these tips:
- Sit about 25 inches (arm's length) from the computer screen. Position the screen so you are gazing slightly downward.
- Take regular breaks using the “20-20-20” rule: every 20 minutes, shift your eyes to look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- When your eyes feel dry, use artificial tears to refresh them.
- Adjust your room lighting and try increasing the contrast on your screen to reduce eye strain. Use a mattescreen filter if needed.
- If you wear contact lenses, give your eyes a break by wearing your glasses.
Most eye symptoms caused by computer use are only temporary and will lessen after you stop using the computer. If you continue to experience these symptoms, contact your ophthalmologist.
My Child Uses Screens All Day. Do They Need Special Glasses?
The recommendation for children using screens all dayis the same as for adults: the best way to find relief from eye strain is to take breaks. We've created thefollowing guide for children participating in virtual learning,
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of eye health and the impact of digital screens, let me provide you with evidence-based insights on the topic. I draw upon my extensive knowledge to address the claims surrounding eyeglasses that filter out blue light from computers, smartphones, and tablets.
Firstly, it's crucial to note that the American Academy of Ophthalmology emphasizes there is no scientific evidence supporting the idea that the light emitted from computer screens is inherently damaging to the eyes. The Academy explicitly states that no special eyewear is recommended for computer use. This assertion is grounded in research that has consistently failed to establish a direct link between computer screen light and eye diseases.
One notable study, reprinted by the National Library of Medicine, found no measurable UVA or UVB radiation—the most harmful components of light—emitting from computer screens. This provides substantial evidence to counter the notion that the light from screens poses a threat to eye health.
While prolonged screen time can lead to eye strain, this is attributed to factors such as decreased blinking and prolonged periods of focused screen viewing rather than any intrinsic harm from the screen's light. The recommendation to mitigate eye strain is to take regular breaks, following the "20-20-20" rule, which involves shifting focus to an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
Regarding the purported benefits of blue light-blocking glasses, multiple studies have suggested that these glasses do not significantly improve symptoms of digital eye strain. Consequently, the American Academy of Ophthalmology does not endorse the use of blue light-blocking glasses due to the lack of scientific evidence supporting their efficacy.
Concerns about blue light disrupting circadian rhythms and sleep cycles have some basis, and it is generally advised to avoid screen use two to three hours before bedtime. However, the emphasis is on adjusting behavior rather than relying on special eyewear.
In summary, the prevailing scientific consensus does not support the necessity of blue light-filtering glasses for general computer use. Instead, the focus should be on adopting healthy screen habits, such as taking breaks, maintaining an appropriate distance from the screen, and adjusting lighting conditions. If you or your child experience eye strain, following these evidence-based recommendations is the best course of action.
