Are Your Digital Screens Ageing Your Face?
It's well documented that our modern addiction to tablets, phones and computers is having effects on our health and wellbeing. Despite the fact we are straining our eyesight, disrupting our sleep patterns and shortening concentration spans, we still can't seem to put our screens down. However, the latest research may start to make you think twice before picking up your phone.
Scientists now believe that the light emitted from our devices is a cause in premature signs of ageing. Commonly referred to as 'blue light', high energy visible light (HEV) is a high-frequency, high-energy light in the violet/blue band from 400-500 nm. It is believed that regular exposure to blue light can affect the skin in the same manner as UV damage. Quite a scary thought!New research has shown that HEV has effects on the epidermal and dermal tissues, damages DNA and can even degrade our structural collagen fibres. Top boffs are also currently testing whether HEV can worsen pigmentation issues such as melasma. Unfortunately for us, the damage inflicted by blue light doesn't cause an initial reaction on the skin, so the damage won't show up until it's too late.
In our modern world it's almost impossible to banish the screens all together (although a digital detox would do everyone a little good once in a while), so ensuring your skin is protected against the harms of daily life is your best bet. Opt for a sunscreen that protects against visible light as well as UVA/UVB, such as the Heliocare 360 range. Antioxidants are also crucial for not only protecting cells against damage, but helping to repair the effects too. Vitamin C is still the antioxidant favourite, but the new Murad City Skin Broad Spectrum SPF 50 and Overnight Detox Moisturiser are fantastic for combating the signs of blue light, pollution and other environmental aggressors.
For more information on antioxidants and protecting your skin against premature ageing, call one of our skincare experts on 0113 282 7744.
Written for you by: Ellie, Face the Future
