Sunscreen and Blue Light Exposure

Wait, I need sunscreen when I sit in front of my computer? The short answer is yes. Have you ever read about that persistent, tiny drop of water? You know, the one that made a significant change in the surface of rock over time, eroding a significant path, showing everyone how powerful water can be. I bet you know the story. I have used it so many times to inspire others about the benefit of discipline and consistency, but today, that story will take another route. Forgive me as I get a bit technical for a minute, but I promise to get only deep enough into the science of light to make the information relevant AND interesting! 

Light is a spectrum of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet waves. When all of these colors are combined, the light becomes white, which is visible to us. Each color has different properties: different wavelengths and energy levels. Red light has longer wavelengths and less energy. On the other end of the spectrum, violet light has short wavelengths and more energy. What that means to us is that light that looks white exposes us to the entire light spectrum, including blue light. 

What is Blue Light Exposure?

Exposure to blue light has many positive effects. It has been shown to boost mood, memory, and brain function and support the body’s circadian rhythm or wake and sleep cycle. However, with the overreach of technology into our daily lives—face it, many of us have a screen of some sort in our faces for more hours of the day than we don’t—we’re experiencing an overexposure to blue light. The result is disturbing the wake and sleep cycle, showing evidence of cognitive disruption and leading to daytime tiredness. Then, there’s digital eye strain.

Digital eye strain is one of the most common side effects of exposure to blue light, causing dry and tired eyes, irritation, and facial fatigue. Unfortunately, these are only some of the problems; the other effects are more subtle, similar to how the small water drop erodes rock. To combat the effects of digital eye strain, blue-light-blocking glasses were invented to combat the effects of blue light on wearers who live lifestyles calling for consistent exposure to screens. Brilliant, right? As a side note, Amazon has some super cute, fashionable blue-light-blocking glasses for protecting your eyes, making you look chic and sophisticated. I may have bought a few pairs… I’m so here for the look.)

How does Blue Light exposure affect my skin?

Blue light can have negative effects on your skin over time. Too much exposure, directly proportional to too much time in the sun or too much time spent in front of electronic devices, can stimulate changes in your skin, significantly speeding up the aging process, hyperpigmentation, and the advancement of some skin conditions like melasma. Blue light can also worsen dark spots caused by acne and scarring.

 The Elite Content Marketer wrote an article based on a study regarding smartphone usage. The article said the average adult in the United States uses a mobile device for 3 hours and 43 minutes per day, which equates to roughly 50 days per year. Additionally, this time doesn’t count TV or computer usage.

During that time, your skin cells would be dying, little by little, adding to the damage from each of the previous days. No one wants that! The good news is you don’t have to get all worked up about this because the experts at Elite Medical Skin & Laser have some tricks up our sleeves to help you protect your skin. But personally, let me reiterate something… 50 days per year?! I will be making some changes soon with respect to how much time I put my phone in my face, okay??

Sunscreen in front of my computer? Yes, please!

Now… what can Elite do for You? Don’t worry, be happy! Here at Elite, we have your back. First things first: invest in a broad-spectrum UV skincare product. EltaMD has three incredible broad-spectrum UV, fragrance- and oil-free product options to protect your skin daily 

• EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

A miracle product for people prone to acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation, EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 will provide protection to combat aging skin and has been formulated to adapt to skin conditions and sensitivity.

• EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41

EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 is perfect for anyone with extra-sensitive skin. It is a water-resistant, chemical-free mineral sunscreen that can be used post-procedure while the skin heals.

• EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 (*also available without tint)

Excellent for normal and combination skin types, EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 increases smoothness and softness and decreases wrinkles. 

Here at Elite, we care deeply about our clients and want you to live in your best skin! The takeaway here? Any harm caused by blue light or UV rays can be reversed, at least to a significant measure. I needed to tell you the secret, but you know what? Please share it with everyone because this information is too good to keep to yourself!

At Elite Medical Skin & Laser, we can help with light damage to your skin. The list of treatments we have available is more comprehensive, but here are some of my favorites:

Aging

• Microdermabrasion strengthens your skin and adds collagen. You will also notice a decrease in fine lines and wrinkles

• Chemical Peels are available in a variety of intensities for any skin type and need. After a Chemical Peel, you will feel rejuvenated and refreshed.

• Skin Tightening utilizes advanced infrared technology, radiofrequency, and laser energy to penetrate and restore your skin from the inside out.

Hyperpigmentation

• Micro-Needling uses tiny needles in the affected area, causing the blood circulation to be stimulated, helping your skin naturally heal itself.

• Pixel Laser Resurfacing dramatically improves the appearance of your skin with a minimum amount of discomfort or downtime.

Any Skin Conditions

If you have skin conditions like melasma, acne, psoriasis, discoloration, or hyperpigmentation, we can customize a treatment for you. Our membership options help you budget your skincare plan. We are here for the long run. Your success is ours, too!