You probably know that UV rays emitted by the sun can be damaging to your skin. But what about other types of light, like the warm glow of a computer monitor or smartphone?
Generally, newer model computers feature LCD or LED screens and do not emit harmful UV radiation. But most televisions, computers, smartphones and tablets emit other types of light that some studies show can be harmful to your skin with prolonged exposure.
Recent studies have shown that this “blue light” (otherwise known as high-energy visible light or HEV for short) emitted by electronic devices could potentially be just as damaging as sun exposure. Some studies have hinted that the effects can be even stronger among people with darker skin, as the “blue light” can cause hyper-pigmentation and skin darkening. The science is inconclusive so far, but hopefully additional studies will shed light on the theory.
While it’s doubtful that you’ll be giving up your devices any time soon, there are some things you can do to prevent and repair the signs of potential aging caused by computer and smartphone screens. Here’s what we suggest:
Limit screen time.
Of course, the best way to minimize the harmful effects of any type of light radiation is to limit your exposure to it, whether that is staying out of the sun or limiting your screen time.
Studies have found that using your electronic devices outdoors can be even more harmful, because the UV radiation from the sun reflects from your smartphone or tablet screen directly onto your face, doubling the impact of dangerous light radiation.
Use the power of antioxidants.
Antioxidants occur naturally in many of the fresh fruits and vegetables we eat. They offer your body many health benefits, including protecting your skin from harmful UV and HEV rays.
Strawberries, blueberries, and kiwis are just a few of the delicious fruits that are packed full of antioxidants. While having an antioxidant-rich diet is crucial to fighting off signs of aging, so is incorporating antioxidants into your daily skin care routine. The Baobab tree, native to the African savannah, has long been known as the “Tree of Life” for its nutrient-rich properties. Our Baobab Skin Correction Facial Cream is made with Baobab seed oil, which is packed full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, making skin appear younger.
Our Total Antioxidant Facial Serum repairs visible signs of aging in just weeks. A favorite among our patients and customers, this anti-aging serum features key antioxidants, vitamins, extracts, peptides and other state-of-the-art ingredients.
Wear sunscreen daily.
It is critical that you make sunscreen part of your daily skin care regimen. Even if you work in an office all day and spend little time outdoors, your skin will still be exposed to UV radiation as well as other types of light rays.
Get in the habit of applying a sunscreen with UVA/UVB protection each morning. Our Solar Defender SPF 30 Sunscreen is water-resistant and goes on sheer, making it the perfect sunscreen for daily use.
Moisturize and soothe irritated skin.
Whether your skin has become irritated from long days in the sun or a work week in front of a computer screen, it is important to keep your skin moisturized and healthy. Our Soothing Gelle Masque provides instant relief for irritated skin.
When in doubt, ask a dermatologist.
We are board-certified, practicing dermatologists with more than 75 combined years of experience. After treating nearly 100,000 patients, we have formulated the Skin Resource.MD™ line of skin care products found here.
If you have any questions about our products, contact our dermatologists.
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