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Could your phone's blue light be ageing you prematurely?

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The average person spends most of their day with their face glued to either a cellphone, computer or TV screen; but did you know that the light from these devices could be harmful to your skin? 

We're all getting better at finding means of protecting our skin from harsh weather and intense UV rays, but dermatologist, Dr. Nomphelo Gantsho says that the effects of the blue light released by your electronic devices could also cause pre-mature skin ageing.

She notes that blue light is also known as high energy visible light and "sunlight is the main source of blue light to which we are exposed". 

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Luckily the blue light released from our beloved electronic devices only emits a fraction compared to the sun's radiation, "however, our phones are much closer to us than the sun, and this 'close-up' exposure matters". So, the more you expose your skin to the light from your devices, the more harmful it is to your skin. 

How does blue light damage the skin?

Blue light is emitted from our TVs, fluorescent light bulbs, cellphones, tablets, and computers. It is part of the ultraviolet (UV) light spectrum, therefore it has the potential to be harmful. Excessive blue light accelerates the oxidation process, which elicits inflammation and damages the skin barrier, making it more prone to signs of ageing, increased uneven skin tone, dullness, pigmentation, and fine lines and wrinkles, says Dr. Gantsho.

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On the other hand, it is worth taking note that "short-term use of visible blue light (Phototherapy-UVA) in a dermatological practice to treat chronic skin conditions is safe". 

How to protect your skin from blue light

The free piece of advice would be to limit the time you spend exposing your skin to your digital devices. Dr. Gantsho also recommends that you "use sunscreens and products loaded with antioxidants".

Use a powerful antioxidant that naturally shields the skin from the damaging effects of blue light. 

Try these products jam-packed with antioxidants like Vitamin C: 

Heliocare 360° Mineral Fluid SPF 50+, R426.

PCA Skin C&E Strength, R1 875.

Lamelle Recharge CE Complex, R760.

Watch: 

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