Today, over 90 percent of the population spends at least two hours a day focusing on a digital display. The amount of time drastically rises among young professionals, who are more likely to rely on digital devices for both work and recreation.
While these devices are important to our lives, they also pose a great threat to our eyesight. It has been discovered that all digital screens, be it televisions, smartphones, computers, or simple LED displays, emit HEV (High Energy Visible) or what is commonly known as blue light.
Exposure to blue light has been linked to digital eyestrain, poor quality of sleep, and in extreme cases, increased risk of macular degeneration and retinal disease.
Children are particularly vulnerable since the lens on their eyes are more transparent, allowing in more blue light from TV screens and tablets, among others.
Blue light emitted by these digital devices are filtered by the “natural sunglasses of the eyes” called Lutein. Lutein naturally absorbs the harmful HEV blue light, protecting our eyes from the risk of having central vision loss and retinal disease. However, our eyes cannot naturally produce this nutrient. Our bodies can only absorb it by eating green leafy vegetables and colorful fruits.
Simple steps can be done to help protect your eyes against the damaging effects of blue light:
Change your focus. When spending a lot of time in front of your digital device, remember to change your visual focus every often—preferably every 20 minutes—by looking away and focusing your vision on something in the distance.
Minimize the glare. Sit in an area with adequate lighting to adjust the light emitted by your screen.
Refresh your eyes. Put a few drops of artificial tears when you notice that they are getting dry.
Wear protective lenses. Consult with an optometrist about protective lenses such as Shamir Blue Zero. The lenses of Shamir Blue Zero are specifically made from a unique polymer formula that filters and absorbs blue light, similar to what Lutein does to your eyes. They are completely clear, eliminating any unsightly discoloration, and remain comfortable in all light conditions—indoors and outdoors.
Shamir Blue Zero is exclusively available at all Vision Express outlets.
